The ministry of information and broadcasting has blocked 22 YouTube channels for “spreading disinformation related to India’s national security, foreign relations and public order”, according to a press release. According to the ministry, the combined viewership of these channels was over 260 crore.
Of the 22 channels, 18 are Indian news channels while four are Pakistan-based – including 'DuniyaMeryAagy', 'Ghulam NabiMadni', 'HAQEEQAT TV' and 'HAQEEQAT TV 2.0'. They have been blocked using emergency powers under the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021.
