Indian Government Bans Pakistani Content on OTT Platforms Citing National Security

In a significant move, the Indian government has issued an order directing all OTT platforms, media streaming services, and digital intermediaries operating within the country to immediately stop showcasing content originating from Pakistan. This includes web series, films, songs, podcasts, and any other streaming media—regardless of whether they are offered through paid subscriptions or free access.

The decision comes in the wake of a series of terrorist attacks with confirmed cross-border links to Pakistan. Most recently, the deadly terror strike in Pahalgam on April 22, 2025, resulted in the deaths of several Indian citizens and one Nepali national, along with injuries to many others. Intelligence agencies have pointed to the involvement of Pakistan-based state and non-state actors in the planning and execution of the attack.

In response, the government has taken strong measures aimed at safeguarding national security and sending a clear diplomatic signal. The advisory explicitly states that no Pakistani content should be made available on Indian digital platforms, and that Indian production houses should refrain from employing Pakistani actors or collaborating with Pakistani media entities.

This move reinforces India’s stance of minimizing cultural and economic engagement with Pakistan amid rising tensions. While not the first time such restrictions have been imposed, this order is particularly comprehensive, covering all forms of digital media distribution.

The directive is expected to impact several streaming platforms that host Pakistani content popular among certain Indian audiences. However, the government has prioritized national interest over entertainment collaborations, emphasizing that content with Pakistani origins must be removed immediately.

The order underscores the broader diplomatic fallout from continued terror incidents and reflects India’s zero-tolerance approach toward cross-border terrorism and associated influences in its cultural ecosystem.