India-Pakistan news blocks harm democracy, says Editors Guild
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The Editors Guild of India voiced strong concerns on Wednesday over the mutual blocking of news outlets between India and Pakistan, calling it a threat to democratic values.
New Delhi restricted at least 12 Pakistani news websites, including Dawn, Pakistan's top English daily, between April and May 2025. It also banned 16 Pakistani YouTube channels like Dawn News, Geo News, and ARY News for spreading misleading content on the Indian Army and Kashmir, following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack.
Pakistan hit back from May 8, blocking access to 32 Indian news websites, including India Today, Republic World, The Hindu, and NDTV, plus 16 Indian YouTube channels.
Unhindered access to news is essential for trust and understanding between South Asian nations, the Guild stated. "Untrammelled access to news, views, perspectives and information will help create an informed citizenry, aid dialogue and help usher in peace in the region."
While acknowledging lapses in balanced journalism, such as misinformation and fake news that incite panic, the Guild argued blanket bans aren't the answer. "A blanket ban does not expunge ground realities, but only serves to build a climate of fear and mistrust. Such bans also run counter to the spirit of democracy and freedom of expression."
The Guild called on both governments to reverse the restrictions and restore cross-border access.