India Cracks Down on Bangladeshi Media After Pakistan Conflict
As tensions between India and Pakistan continue to dominate global headlines, India has now taken decisive action against Bangladesh as well, marking a significant shift in its regional diplomatic posture. The move comes just days after escalating air strikes between India and Pakistan, which have heightened security and media scrutiny across South Asia.
India Targets Infiltration and Fake News Campaigns
Two days ago, Indian authorities deported 123 Bangladeshi nationals accused of illegally crossing the border. The operation was part of a broader crackdown on infiltration and border security violations.
Following this, India has now initiated action against four Bangladeshi media outlets for allegedly spreading fake news and misinformation amid the ongoing India-Pakistan conflict. The Indian government lodged an official request with YouTube, urging the platform to investigate and take immediate action against the channels in question.
In response, YouTube launched a formal investigation and subsequently issued notices to the four Bangladeshi channels cited by Indian authorities. The channels under scrutiny include:
Jamuna TV
Actor TV
Banglavision
Mohona TV
These channels are accused of broadcasting misleading reports that could harm India's national interest during a period of heightened geopolitical tension.
India Also Acts Against Pakistani Media
In parallel, India has also moved to block 16 Pakistani news channels on YouTube, citing similar concerns related to propaganda and the spread of inflammatory content.
These actions are seen as part of a coordinated strategy to counter disinformation and safeguard India’s national narrative during a time of military engagement.
Bangladesh Yet to Respond Officially
While Indian media has widely reported the crackdown, Bangladesh’s official response remains muted. According to local media reports in Dhaka, the Indian actions have come as a significant diplomatic jolt to Bangladesh. However, Bangladesh's Chief Advisor Mohammad Yunus has not yet issued any formal statement on the matter.
The developments highlight India's growing assertiveness in managing cross-border media influence and its efforts to maintain control over the information ecosystem during wartime conditions.