ISLAMABAD (PEN) : India has blocked the official social media account of the Government of Pakistan on X (formerly Twitter), citing a legal demand from the Ministry of Information Technology. This action intensifies the ongoing diplomatic tensions between the two neighboring countries.
Background of the Blockage
The account, @GovtofPakistan, has been withheld in India, displaying a message stating, “Account Withheld @GovtofPakistan’s account has been withheld in India in response to a legal demand.” This marks the third time the account has been restricted in India, with previous incidents occurring in July and October of 2022.
The blockage follows heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, particularly after the Pahalgam incident in Indian-administered Kashmir, where 28 tourists were killed in a terror attack. India has accused Pakistan of involvement in the attack, leading to a series of retaliatory measures, including the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty and the expulsion of Pakistani nationals from India.
Pakistan’s Response
In response to the blockage, Pakistan has called for an emergency meeting of the National Security Committee, comprising both civil and military leadership, to deliberate on a strong counteraction. The government has condemned India’s unilateral actions and emphasized the importance of maintaining open channels of communication.
Implications for Digital Diplomacy
The repeated blocking of official accounts highlights the growing role of digital platforms in international relations and the challenges they pose in terms of information flow and diplomatic engagement. While such actions may be justified under national security concerns, they also raise questions about transparency and the free exchange of information in the digital age.
As tensions continue to escalate, the international community watches closely, recognizing the significance of digital diplomacy in shaping modern geopolitical landscapes.
