Social Media Accounts of Top Pakistani Cricketers Blocked in India After Pahalgam Attack

In a move that has caught the attention of cricket fans, the Instagram accounts of prominent Pakistani cricketers Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, and Mohammad Rizwan have been blocked in India. This comes in the wake of a deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam that claimed the lives of 26 civilians.

The action appears to be part of a broader crackdown. Along with the cricketers, accounts of Pakistani actress Hania Aamir and actor Ali Fazal have also been restricted. Even Olympic javelin thrower Arshad Nadeem, who has a notable Indian fan base, saw his Instagram account blocked.

These blocked figures are not just random names — they are some of the most followed personalities from Pakistan, particularly among Indian audiences. Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, and Rizwan are among the top cricketers currently playing in the Pakistan Super League (PSL). Their social media posts and updates have long been followed by cricket lovers in India.

This is not the first time Pakistani celebrities have faced restrictions in India. Earlier, YouTube channels of former cricketers Shoaib Akhtar and Basit Ali were restricted. Popular artists like Mahira Khan and Ali Zafar have also seen similar actions taken against their online presence.

Adding to the tension, Arshad Nadeem recently declined an invitation from Neeraj Chopra to attend a joint event in Bengaluru, citing prior commitments. The Olympic medallist from Pakistan had gained popularity in India during previous sporting events, especially after a friendly exchange with Chopra.