Islamabad Court Suspends Ban on 27 Pakistani YouTube Channels Over Alleged Anti-State Content
ISLAMABAD – In a significant legal development, an Islamabad court has suspended an earlier order that directed YouTube to block 27 Pakistani YouTube channels, many of which are run by well-known journalists and media commentators.
The suspension, issued by Additional Sessions Judge Afzal Majoka, halts the execution of a prior ruling by Judicial Magistrate Abbas Shah, who had approved the Federal Investigation Agency’s (FIA) request to restrict access to the channels over allegations of anti-state content.
High-Profile Journalists Targeted
The original order included prominent names such as:
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Asad Ali Toor
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Matiullah Jan
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Imran Riaz
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Moeed Pirzada
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Sabir Shakir
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Aftab Iqbal
These journalists collectively reach millions of subscribers, and their platforms are widely followed for political commentary and independent analysis.
According to court records, the FIA initiated an inquiry on June 2, presenting what it claimed was credible evidence that certain YouTube content could pose a threat to national interests. Based on this, the magistrate had initially ruled in favor of a block.
Temporary Relief for Free Speech Advocates
Thursday’s suspension is being seen as a major win for press freedom and digital rights, at least for now. Journalist Asad Ali Toor, who had filed a petition against the block, shared the news on social media, calling the court’s ruling a “big victory.”
He confirmed that his YouTube channel, Asad Toor UNCENSORED, and MJtv by Matiullah Jan, will remain accessible until further notice.
Toor also extended his gratitude to his legal team, including:
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Riasat Ali Azad
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Zainab Janjua
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Imaan Z. Hazir
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Hadia Ali
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Farieha Aziz (a well-known digital rights advocate)
What Happens Next?
While the suspension provides temporary relief, the case remains open. The FIA could choose to appeal the decision or pursue fresh charges under Pakistan’s cybercrime laws.
Digital rights organizations have welcomed the decision and are urging for greater transparency in how online content is regulated, especially when it involves journalists and free speech.
✅ Conclusion
This court ruling serves as a critical checkpoint in Pakistan’s digital freedom landscape, especially as online platforms continue to play a growing role in public discourse. Whether the suspension holds or leads to broader legal reforms remains to be seen—but for now, journalistic voices remain online.
