DigiMAP Slams India’s YouTube Channel Ban

News Desk

Islamabad: The Digital Media Alliance of Pakistan (DigiMAP) has described India’s restrictions on several Pakistani YouTube channels and digital media platforms as a threat to press freedom and efforts aimed at promoting regional dialogue.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the alliance said the restrictions affected multiple Pakistani digital media outlets, including its member platform Naya Daur TV, which it said has consistently promoted research-based reporting and dialogue-driven coverage.
DigiMAP argued that the affected platforms have sought to present balanced perspectives on regional developments while encouraging restraint and peaceful engagement between Pakistan and India. It said the restrictions undermine independent journalism and limit access to diverse viewpoints.
DigiMAP President Sabookh Syed said the suppression of independent voices weakens democratic values and risks amplifying extremist narratives instead of encouraging constructive dialogue.
Naya Daur Editor Ali Warsi said the platform had continued to allow engagement from Indian audiences despite receiving offensive and abusive comments, adding that it had chosen dialogue over censorship.
The alliance warned that restricting independent media could create an information vacuum filled by unregulated and hate-driven content, with potentially harmful consequences for regional stability.
DigiMAP urged international media rights organizations, civil society groups and democratic governments to take notice of the restrictions, saying they pose challenges to freedom of expression, independent journalism and prospects for peace in South Asia.
The alliance reiterated its commitment to promoting independent journalism, open dialogue and mutual understanding across the region.