Islamabad court orders blocking of 27 YouTube channels over anti-state content

An Islamabad court on Tuesday allowed a request by the National Cybercrime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) to block 27 YouTube channels, including those of well-known journalists, for "publicly spreading false, misleading, and fabricated information against state institutions."

Judicial Magistrate Abbas Shah directed the officer responsible for YouTube operations in Pakistan to immediately restrict access to these channels. He stressed the need for oversight of digital platforms to counter harmful narratives and uphold national security.

The order targets YouTube channels operated by journalists Matiullah Jan, Asad Toor, Siddique Jan, Orya Maqbool Jan, Imran Riaz Khan, and Habib Akram, as well as several others affiliated with the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI).

The petition claimed that these channels were involved in circulating disinformation, fake news, and provocative content aimed at high-ranking officials and institutions of the state. It warned that such material could fuel fear, division, and mistrust among the public, posing a threat to public order and national security.

Describing the content as “inflammatory, derogatory, and designed to incite hatred” against key institutions like the military and judiciary, the plea argued it undermined societal harmony and could destabilize the state.

According to the court order, the NCCIA began probing the matter on June 2. Following a detailed inquiry and review of the evidence, the court concluded that the materials fell under punishable offenses outlined in the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC) and the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA).

In its written ruling, the court noted that the inquiry officer had presented substantial evidence indicating the channels were engaged in publishing unlawful and offensive content. The court found the evidence adequate to justify further legal steps.