July 5, 2025
Popular Pakistani celebrities, including actors Mawra Hocane, Saba Qamar, and Dananeer Mobeen, continue to face social media restrictions in India, with their profiles inaccessible to Indian users. This comes after a brief period in early July when their accounts were unexpectedly unblocked—an incident later dismissed as a “technical glitch” by sources.
A Fleeting Glimpse of Access
Earlier this month, Indian social media users noticed that they could once again view and engage with posts from these Pakistani stars, sparking speculation about a possible thaw in digital restrictions. However, the access was short-lived, with the accounts being blocked again within days. Authorities confirmed that the temporary unblocking was accidental and not indicative of any policy change.
Why Are Pakistani Celebrities Blocked in India?
The restrictions stem from longstanding political tensions between India and Pakistan, particularly after the 2019 Pulwama attack and subsequent diplomatic fallout. In response, Indian authorities and social media platforms imposed blocks on several Pakistani public figures, preventing their content from reaching Indian audiences.
While entertainment and sports have often served as bridges between the two nations, digital bans on artists, actors, and influencers have remained in place, reflecting the strained relations.
Fan Reactions: Disappointment and Divided Opinions
The brief unblocking reignited debates among netizens. Many fans expressed frustration over the renewed restrictions.
“It was wonderful to see Saba Qamar’s updates again, even if just for a few days. Art should be beyond borders,” wrote one user on X (formerly Twitter).
However, others supported the ban, citing national security concerns. “Given the current tensions, it’s better to limit exposure to content from across the border,” argued another.
No Change in India’s Digital Policy
Government sources confirmed that there has been no official revision of India’s stance on Pakistani content. The temporary accessibility was reportedly due to a backend error rather than a deliberate shift in policy.
What’s Next for Cross-Border Digital Access?
For now, Indian audiences will remain unable to follow these Pakistani celebrities on platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. Meanwhile, Mawra, Saba, and Dananeer continue to engage with their global fanbase, with their content still available in other regions.
The incident highlights the fragile nature of digital diplomacy and how geopolitical tensions influence cultural exchanges in the social media age.