Meta blocks Muslim news page in India amid rising Indo-Pak tensions
Instagram has restricted access to the prominent @Muslim news account in India following a legal request from the Indian government, the page’s founder Ameer Al-Khatahtbeh said on Wednesday, the Guardian reported. The account, which has 6.7 million followers, now displays a message to Indian users: “Account not available in India.”
Khatahtbeh criticized the move as censorship, asserting the platform is being silenced for holding those in power accountable. Meta declined to comment directly, referring instead to its general policy of complying with local laws.
The development follows escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, which have exchanged deadly cross-border fire after India launched missile strikes in retaliation for an April 22 attack in Kashmir. India blames Pakistan for backing the assault, while Pakistan denies the charge. In response, both nations have taken significant diplomatic steps, including expelling diplomats and suspending key treaties.
The digital fallout has also grown, with India blocking access to multiple Pakistani social media accounts, including those of celebrities and politicians like former Prime Minister Imran Khan.
In a separate incident, national outrage erupted after videos emerged from Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, showing protestors walking over printed flags bearing Islamic inscriptions during an anti-Pakistan rally. Among the trampled images was the Saudi Arabian flag, which includes the Islamic declaration of faith.
The act was widely condemned by Muslim communities across India as deeply disrespectful. The incident has intensified concerns over rising religious sensitivities as political and military tensions between India and Pakistan continue to grow.
