All Pakistan Journalists Association (APJA) Chairman Muhammad Zaheer Alam, Vice Chairman Tanveer Baloch, President Allahdad Sidique, General Secretary Zamir Assadi, National Coordinator and Spokesperson Masood Chaudhary and all members of the executive strongly condemn the unjust and disturbing steps taken by India in blocking many Pakistani YouTube channels.
"This move represents a blatant attack on freedom of expression and the fundamental right of access to different sources of information - principles that form the basis of any true democracy," said in a statement APJA representatives.
The list of blocked channels includes prominent media organisations and respected journalists such as Dawn News, Irshad Bhatti, SAMAA TV, ARY News, BOL News, Ratar, The Pakistan Reference, Geo News, Samaa Sports, GNN, Uzair Cricket, Umar Cheema Exclusive, Asma Shirazi, Muneeb Faroog, SUNO News, Razi Naama, Harmeet Singh, Unity News, Razi Tahir, Arzoo Kazmi, among others. "Targeting such a wide range of voices reflects a disturbing pattern of media suppression," the association pointed out.
"It is deeply ironic that India, which often presents itself as a champion of democracy and freedom of speech, commits actions that are in stark contradiction to these very ideals," the statement reads. By silencing independent journalism and restricting the free flow of information, the association said India is undermining not only press freedom in the region but also its own credibility on the global stage.
The All Pakistan Journalists Association calls on international journalism organisations, human rights bodies and free media advocates around the world to take immediate notice of these repressive and undemocratic actions. "We call for collective action to protect journalistic integrity, freedom of expression and the right of people around the world to access truthful and diverse perspectives," the journalists stressed.
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