27 YouTube channels, including journalists’, blocked over ‘anti-state content’

On Tuesday, a local court in Islamabad directed authorities to block 27 YouTube channels — including several run by well-known journalists — for allegedly spreading anti-state material.

Judicial Magistrate Abbas Shah issued the order after reviewing a petition filed by the National Cybercrime Investigation Agency. The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) submitted evidence claiming the channels were publishing inflammatory and derogatory content targeting state institutions, senior officials, and the military.

Among those named in the court order are journalists Matiullah Jan, Asad Toor, Siddique Jan, Orya Maqbool Jan, and Habib Akram. The list also includes channels reportedly linked to the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party.

The petition alleged that the content in question was designed to spread disinformation, incite hatred, and undermine public trust in state institutions — posing a threat to national security and social harmony.

Following an FIA inquiry launched on June 2, the court concluded there was enough evidence to justify immediate action under the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC) and the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA).

In its written order, the court stated: “The inquiry officer has provided sufficient material to demonstrate that these channels are involved in uploading content that is offensive in nature and violates the law. The court finds the evidence satisfactory for further action.”

The order instructed the officer responsible for YouTube operations in Pakistan to promptly block access to the identified channels. The court also underlined the need for stricter regulation of digital platforms to prevent the spread of harmful narratives and protect national interests.

Source: Web Desk