Pakistani Films, Shows, Songs Removed From Indian OTT Platforms Amid Security Tensions

The Indian government has directed all OTT platforms and streaming services operating in the country to remove content originating from Pakistan—including web series, films, songs, and podcasts—regardless of whether it is offered for free or behind a paywall. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting issued the order citing national security concerns and the potential threat such content may pose to India’s sovereignty and integrity.

This directive follows heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, particularly after recent security incidents in Jammu and Kashmir. A series of explosions and power outages in Jammu were attributed by Indian authorities to suspected Pakistani drone activity. In response, India reportedly carried out retaliatory strikes on Pakistani air defense sites, including targets in Lahore. Pakistan has denied initiating any attacks and instead accused India of drone strikes that injured its soldiers.

As a result, the government has instructed all digital platforms to immediately remove any content of Pakistani origin, whether entertainment or informational, that could be considered detrimental to national interests. The ministry emphasized that compliance is essential to maintain public order and protect national security.

This is not the first such action. In December 2022, the government invoked emergency powers under the IT Rules to block the Pakistani OTT platform Vidly TV after it released the web series Sevak: The Confessions, which was deemed to present an anti-India narrative rooted in sensitive historical events.

The latest advisory underscores India’s continued efforts to regulate foreign digital content perceived as harmful, especially amid ongoing regional instability. The government has urged all digital intermediaries to strictly comply and ensure no Pakistani-origin content remains accessible.