Pakistani YouTube Channels UNBLOCKED in India: Why Are Shahid Afridi, Shoaib Akhtar Back Online?

Pakistani YouTube Channels UNBLOCKED in India: Operation Sindoor was launched on May 7, 2025, as a tri-service precision strike by the Indian Armed Forces targeting nine terrorist infrastructure sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), directly linked to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 civilian lives. On April 22, in the popular tourist destination of Baisaran Meadow, near Pahalgam in Anantnag district, five heavily armed militants opened fire on a group of mainly Hindu tourists. The result was horrific: 26 civilians killed and around 20 injured. The mission name — “Sindoor” (vermilion)— was personally chosen by PM Narendra Modi to symbolize the grief and resolve of the 25 widows left behind, turning loss into a statement of national justice

after In a surprising and controversial move, several prominent Pakistani YouTube channels—including those run by Shahid Afridi, Shoaib Akhtar, and multiple media personalities—have been unblocked in India. This sudden development has sparked outrage, confusion, and heated debate across the Indian digital landscape. Pakistani YouTube Channels UNBLOCKED in India

A Brief Timeline of the Ban

The origin of the restrictions on Pakistani YouTube channels in India dates back to increasing tensions between India and Pakistan, especially following incidents related to cross-border terrorism, propaganda, and anti-India rhetoric frequently echoed through digital platforms.

In response, India began geo-blocking specific Pakistani news and entertainment YouTube channels that were deemed anti-India, misinformative, or against national interest. Many channels were inaccessible across Indian ISPs without VPNs. Pakistani YouTube Channels UNBLOCKED in India:

Among the blocked accounts were:

• Shoaib Akhtar Official
• Shahid Afridi Foundation/Personal
• Geo News, ARY Digital, Dunya News
• Some Urdu commentary and Islamic channels with controversial content.

What Changed Now?

Suddenly, around late June 2025, users started noticing that some of these previously blocked channels are now viewable without VPNs. Leading the list of ‘resurrected’ channels are Shoaib Akhtar, the former fast bowler turned YouTuber with over 3 million subscribers, and Shahid Afridi, who shares both personal views and charity work updates.

While there has been no official statement from YouTube India, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, or MEITY, tech experts and digital rights watchdogs have confirmed the restriction settings have changed, allowing these channels to reappear in the Indian domain. Pakistani YouTube Channels UNBLOCKED in India:

Indian Viewers Are Furious

This development has not been received well by many Indian citizens, especially those active on social media. The common sentiment is that allowing these channels back—without transparency or explanation—is a direct insult to those who:

• Lost loved ones to cross-border terror,
• Have long demanded stronger digital control over propaganda,
• Expect Indian platforms to uphold national dignity in cyberspace.

Twitter (now X) saw trends like #BanPakChannels and #YouTubeExplain rise shortly after these channels were spotted again.

Is This a Technical Glitch or Strategic Decision?

1. YouTube Algorithm or Policy Shift

Some digital analysts suggest this might be part of YouTube’s global enforcement realignment. If Pakistani channels no longer violate YouTube’s policies (i.e., no explicit hate, no copyright strikes), the platform might have automatically removed the geo-restriction.

However, Indian ISPs were the ones enforcing regional restrictions, implying this goes beyond YouTube’s own actions.

2. Political or Diplomatic Signal

Another theory is that India may be sending a political signal—a possible softening of digital borders amidst ongoing backchannel talks with Pakistan. Cultural diplomacy, such as letting entertainment and sports content flow again, can often precede actual talks.

But critics argue: Why are such signals sent without public debate or notice, especially when public opinion clearly opposes it?

3. Backdoor Pressure or Lobbying

There are whispers that foreign tech lobbying and pressure from media investors in Dubai, Canada, or the UK (where many Pakistani media houses are registered) may have influenced this decision.

The lack of public clarity has only fueled suspicions of a backdoor deal or appeasement.

Who Are the Main Faces Back Online?

🏏 Shoaib Akhtar – The ‘Rawalpindi Express’ of YouTube

Akhtar’s channel mixes cricket commentary, interviews, and fiery monologues. His anti-India statements in the past—especially during Indo-Pak cricket matches—led to calls for his ban.

Despite that, he retains a large Indian fanbase, especially among cricket lovers.

🏏 Shahid Afridi – From All-rounder to Activist

Afridi, too, has been a controversial figure—seen making public speeches against India, particularly about Kashmir. Yet, his charity work and social media presence have earned him a mixed audience in India.

With his channel now accessible, videos discussing religious unity, cricket diplomacy, and his foundation are reaching Indian users again.

What About Other Channels?

Besides these two personalities, multiple Pakistani media and infotainment channels seem to be visible again, including:

• UrduPoint
• SAMAA TV
• Dunya News Urdu
• Islamic channels that were flagged previously

Some remain blocked, but there is no clear pattern, which only adds to the confusion.

Why This Matters: More Than Just YouTube

Unblocking Pakistani YouTube channels in India is not just about content—it’s about national sentiment, digital sovereignty, and mutual respect.

Many Indians feel:

• India gives space to Pakistani voices, but the reverse is rarely true.
• There’s no accountability for anti-India propaganda on these channels.
• Allowing such platforms creates a space for misinformation and cultural infiltration, especially among youth.

Should India Re-block These Channels?

Opinions are divided:

✅ Pro-Reblock Arguments:

• Protecting national integrity is non-negotiable.
• Pakistan continues to host and support anti-India forces.
• Many channels indirectly or directly encourage communal division.

❌ Anti-Censorship Arguments:

• Blocking content harms freedom of information.
• Let users decide what to watch.
• Some of these creators promote peace and humanitarian causes.

The real solution may lie in better content regulation rather than wholesale censorship or unchecked access.

What Can Indian Viewers Do?

If you’re concerned about seeing these channels again:

1. Use YouTube’s “Not Interested” or “Report” features.
2. Raise your concerns directly to MEITY or via public petitions.
3. Demand platforms like YouTube clearly label country-of-origin on every channel.

Conclusion: Unanswered Questions and Public Pressure

The unblocking of Pakistani YouTube channels in India has ignited a crucial debate—not just about politics or cricket—but about who controls narratives, how digital borders work, and whether governments truly listen to the people.

Until a formal explanation is given, one thing is certain:
The people of India deserve transparency, respect, and a say in what enters their digital space.