ISLAMABAD – A local court in Pakistan’s capital has directed authorities to enforce a YouTube ban in Pakistan against 27 prominent channels. These online platforms allegedly shared material labeled as “anti-state.”
Judicial Magistrate Abbas Shah issued this ruling on Tuesday. The order followed a request made by the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA). The agency’s Cyber Crime Wing had opened an inquiry into the case on June 2, 2025.
During the investigation, the FIA identified several YouTube channels. These channels were allegedly involved in uploading content that violated the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (Peca) and other national laws.
In its decision, the court said: “Based on the facts and the evidence presented by the inquiry officer, it is clear that offences were committed under Peca and Pakistan’s penal code.”
The court expressed full satisfaction with the FIA’s findings. It allowed the agency to move forward with legal action.
The written order specifically instructed the head of Google LLC’s security department, or its record custodian, to block or restrict access to the 27 listed YouTube channels.
The request by the FIA was filed under Section 94 of the Criminal Procedure Code. Following the court’s approval, the directive for a YouTube ban in Pakistan was made official.
The new crackdown comes months after the controversial Peca (Amendment) Bill 2025 became law in January. This law introduced tougher regulations, newer definitions, and powerful regulatory bodies. It also imposed harsher penalties for spreading so-called “false” information.
Under the amended Peca law, anyone who feels harmed by fake or misleading content can now file a complaint. Once received, the authority is required to respond and act—usually within 24 hours. These actions often involve content removal or platform blocking.
However, the law has faced heavy criticism. Opposition parties and media organizations grouped under the Joint Action Committee (JAC) strongly opposed the changes. They see it as a tool to suppress dissent.
The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) also released a report. It pointed out major issues in the amended act. The HRCP called for the law to be repealed entirely, along with past versions from 2016 and 2023.
Earlier this year, two journalists—Farhan Mallick and Waheed Murad—were arrested under the same law. Their arrest has drawn concern from press freedom groups and civil society.
This fresh YouTube ban in Pakistan has reignited debates over freedom of speech and government control of digital platforms. Critics argue that such restrictions harm democratic values. Supporters say it’s necessary to maintain national unity and security.