By Nityaasini Sivagami
INDIA, 8 May: Following the deadly Pahalgam terror attack, tensions between India and Pakistan have escalated, prompting the Pakistan Broadcasters Association (PBA) to immediately ban Indian songs on all FM stations and TV channels.
Pakistan’s Information Minister Attaullah Tarar backed the move, calling it a patriotic gesture reflecting the nation’s collective sentiment.
This decision comes after India blocked Instagram accounts of several Pakistani actors, including Hania Amir and Mahira Khan. India also banned 16 Pakistani YouTube channels such as Samaa TV, ARY News, and Dawn News for allegedly spreading provocative content.
Pakistan further retaliated by closing its airspace to Indian airlines and halting trade with India—even through third countries. These steps follow India’s suspension of the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty, blaming Pakistan for supporting cross-border terrorism.
The Pahalgam attack claimed 26 lives, mostly tourists, reportedly targeted based on religion. In response, India imposed strict measures: suspending the Indus Waters Treaty, sealing the Attari border, and downgrading diplomatic ties. Pakistan has warned that blocking water flow would be considered an “act of war.”
Meanwhile, Pakistani artists have expressed solidarity. Mahira Khan, who starred in Bollywood’s Raees with Shah Rukh Khan, said:
“My heart is with the innocent lives affected. When innocent lives are lost, the pain belongs to all of us. Grief speaks the same language. May we always choose humanity.”
(Source: Hindustan Times)
