Pakistan blocks several news sites amid coverage of PoK protests and election unrest

Recent reports indicate that Pakistan has expanded its online censorship by restricting access to several news websites and YouTube channels that covered unrest in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. A court order from June 24 targeted platforms associated with the main opposition party, its leader Imran Khan, and journalists critical of the government, while an earlier Islamabad magistrate decision relied on a June 2 NCCIA report labeling the material as intimidating and derogatory toward state bodies.

The bans affect both domestic outlets and international broadcasters, limiting information flow about protests, alleged security crackdowns, and public discontent. Digital rights advocates have cautioned that the measures could further suppress freedom of expression, leaving social media as one of the few outlets for dissent. The actions come as the second phase of elections in the region was marred by road blockades, protests, and logistical challenges that disrupted voting across 21 constituencies. The situation underscores heightened sensitivity over information control during a politically volatile period.