In a significant development following the tragic Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, 2025, javelin star Arshad Nadeem, Pakistan’s Olympic gold medalist, has had his Instagram account restricted in India. This move is part of a broader crackdown by the Indian government on Pakistani social media accounts with substantial followings in the country, citing national security concerns.

Banned Pakistani Social Media Accounts: A Detailed Overview

Below is a mobile-friendly table summarizing the status of banned Pakistani accounts, including their platforms and current accessibility in India.

NameStatusBanned PlatformAccessible Platform
Arshad NadeemBannedInstagramYouTube
Shoaib AkhtarBannedYouTubeInstagram
Shahid AfridiBannedYouTubeInstagram
Basit AliBannedYouTubeInstagram
Dawn NewsBannedYouTubeWebsite
ARY NewsBannedYouTubeWebsite
Geo NewsBannedYouTubeWebsite
Samaa SportsBannedYouTubeWebsite
BOL NewsBannedYouTubeWebsite
RaftarBannedYouTubeWebsite
The Pakistan ReferenceBannedYouTubeWebsite
GNNBannedYouTubeWebsite
Uzair CricketBannedYouTubeWebsite
Umar Cheema ExclusiveBannedYouTubeWebsite
Asma ShiraziBannedYouTubeWebsite
Muneeb FarooqBannedYouTubeWebsite
SUNO NewsBannedYouTubeWebsite
Razi NaamaBannedYouTubeWebsite

Why Are These Accounts Being Targeted?

The Indian government’s actions are rooted in concerns over content that could incite communal tensions or undermine national security. The Pahalgam attack, which targeted a popular tourist destination, heightened these concerns, prompting swift action against accounts with significant influence. While the bans aim to maintain public order, they have sparked debates about freedom of expression and the role of social media in cross-border relations.

Looking Ahead: Implications for Social Media and Sports

The blocking of javelin star Arshad Nadeem’s Instagram and other Pakistani accounts signals a challenging period for India-Pakistan relations, particularly in sports and media. As both nations navigate these tensions, the impact on athletes like Nadeem and Chopra, who have previously shared mutual respect, remains a focal point. The NC Classic event, initially seen as a platform for friendly competition, now faces uncertainty, reflecting the broader complexities of geopolitical dynamics.

For the latest updates on this developing story, stay tuned to Khelo Pakistan website for reliable news sources.