Mawra Hocane, Yumna Zaidi's Instagram Accounts Blocked Again For Indian Users

News18

3 days ago

Last Updated:
Instagram accounts of Pakistani celebs like Mawra Hocane and Yumna Zaidi have been blocked again in India after being briefly visible. No official reason has been provided yet.
In a surprising turn of events, the Instagram profiles of popular Pakistani celebrities like Mawra Hocane, Yumna Zaidi, Danish Taimoor, and others have once again become inaccessible in India, just days after a temporary lifting of the previous restrictions. The re-blocking has left netizens puzzled, especially in the absence of any official clarification from the Indian government.
The initial ban on these profiles was imposed in May 2025, following the tragic terror attack in Pahalgam and India's swift military retaliation under Operation Sindoor. As part of the fallout, India had blocked social media accounts of Pakistani public figures—including actors, sportspersons, diplomats, and musicians.
On July 1, however, Indian users noticed that some of these previously blocked profiles had become visible again, sparking speculation that the ban might be easing or being lifted in stages. But that optimism was short-lived. By Thursday morning, the profiles were once again restricted, with Instagram displaying the message: 'Account not available in India. This is because we complied with a legal request to restrict this content."
According to a report by News18, an emergency internal review was conducted, after which the government opted to reinstate the ban. While no official statement has been released yet, the decision underscores the continued sensitivity surrounding cross-border digital engagement post-Pahalgam.
Meanwhile, the entertainment industry has also responded with strict measures. Indian film and music bodies have reportedly agreed to a complete freeze on collaborations with Pakistani artists. This has already affected high-profile projects, including Abir Gulaal, a film starring Vaani Kapoor and Fawad Khan, which was shelved before release.
Singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh has also come under fire recently for his film Sardaar Ji 3, in which he stars opposite Pakistani actress Hania Aamir. The actor clarified that the film was completed well before the Pahalgam incident and was released only in international markets to avoid financial losses.
As the digital and cultural fallout continues, the situation remains tense with no sign of immediate resolution.
First Published:
July 03, 2025, 11:02 IST