Some Pakistani Digital Platforms Resurface Amid Ongoing Ban Review Post Operation Sindoor

 A number of Pakistani news websites and social media accounts—previously banned as part of India’s counter-terror operation Operation Sindoor—have resurfaced online, raising questions about the current status of the government-imposed restrictions. While their reappearance suggests a possible easing of curbs, there has been no official notification from the Indian government confirming the revocation of the ban.

According to government sources cited by News18, the reactivation of certain accounts follows a routine periodic review. “Some social media accounts have been reinstated, but the majority remain inaccessible,” a senior official stated, adding that approximately 14,000 accounts across various platforms continue to be blocked.

The sources further noted that platforms restored in the recent review cycle had not engaged in anti-India rhetoric for a considerable period—one of the principal reasons for their initial ban. “Accounts cannot be permanently banned. Each case is subject to ongoing review as part of the government’s standard operating procedure,” the official said.

Operation Sindoor, launched as part of India’s broader counter-terrorism strategy, targeted several prominent Pakistani digital and broadcast entities including Dawn News, Geo News, ARY News, Bol News, Samaa TV, GNN, Suno News HD, and The Pakistan Reference, among others. Collectively, these outlets command a digital following of over 63 million subscribers.

The government’s digital restrictions were aimed at curbing platforms accused of spreading narratives deemed hostile to Indian sovereignty and national security. The evolving status of these bans indicates a calibrated, review-based approach by Indian authorities, balancing national interests with regulatory norms in the digital domain.