An Islamabad district court ordered the blocking of YouTube channels of former Prime Minister Imran Khan and 26 others over alleged anti-state propaganda, raising concerns about online censorship. Judicial Magistrate Abbas Shah issued the order Tuesday, following a petition by the Federal Investigation Agency’s (FIA) Cyber Crime Wing.
The court”s directive follows an inquiry initiated by the FIA on June 2, 2025, into the dissemination of content considered detrimental to the nation. After reviewing the evidence, the court determined the material could violate Pakistan’s Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) and the Pakistan Penal Code.
The court instructed YouTube to block the 27 channels, including those of prominent figures like journalists Matiullah Jan, Sabir Shakir, Abdul Qadir, Haider Mehdi, Imran Riaz, Orya Maqbool Jan, Makhdoom Shahabuddin, Asad Toor, and Siddique Jan.
The FIA’s petition asserted these channels spread disinformation and false reports against Pakistan, causing public disorder, animosity, and even instigating assaults on security agencies. The agency claims its investigation uncovered evidence connecting the channels to these actions.
This incident highlights the increasing anxieties surrounding internet content control in Pakistan, particularly regarding political leaders and media personnel.