Social Media Accounts
Indian authorities have reportedly blocked access to the social media accounts of several prominent Pakistani athletes, further escalating the ongoing digital clampdown amid growing tensions between the two nations.
According to various Indian media outlets, the social media profiles of Pakistan’s national cricket team captain Babar Azam and star wicketkeeper-batsman Mohammad Rizwan are no longer accessible to users inside India.
The move has sparked widespread criticism and raised concerns over increasing restrictions on cross-border digital engagement in the subcontinent.
In addition to Babar and Rizwan, several other Pakistani sports figures have been affected. Olympic javelin thrower Arshad Nadeem, who hails from Mianwali and has brought international recognition to Pakistan through his athletic achievements, has also had his digital presence restricted in India.
His official profiles on major platforms such as Facebook and Instagram are now inaccessible within Indian territory.
The list of blocked athletes doesn’t end there. Shadab Khan, a well-known all-rounder, along with fast bowlers Haris Rauf and Naseem Shah, have all reportedly had their social media accounts restricted in a similar manner.
These athletes, who are celebrated not only in Pakistan but across the cricketing world, are now unable to communicate directly with their Indian fan base.
Adding to the list is former national cricket team captain Shahid Afridi, one of Pakistan’s most iconic sports personalities. Based in Karachi, Afridi’s official social media platforms have also been affected by the restrictions imposed by Indian authorities.
While no official statement has been issued by the Indian government explaining the reasons behind the digital bans, analysts believe these actions are part of broader efforts to limit Pakistani influence on Indian digital space, especially in the wake of rising political and military tensions.
The move has drawn criticism from sports fans and digital rights activists, who argue that sports should serve as a bridge between nations, not become another battleground for censorship and hostility.
