Court Orders Blocking of YouTube Channels Over ‘Anti-State’ Content

A local court in Islamabad has directed the shutdown of 27 YouTube channels accused of disseminating content against the state. The order was issued on Tuesday by Judicial Magistrate Abbas Shah following a request from the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA).

FIA Inquiry and Court’s Decision

The FIA’s Cyber Crime Wing initiated an investigation into the matter on June 2, 2025, as stated in the court order. The inquiry identified numerous YouTube channels allegedly involved in uploading and circulating material that contravenes the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (Peca) and other applicable laws.

The court stated, “Based on the facts explained and the evidence presented by the inquiry officer, this court is convinced that the subject matter constitutes offenses punishable under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act and Penal Laws of Pakistan.” The court expressed satisfaction with the evidence provided by the FIA, thereby permitting legal action.

Directive to Google LLC (YouTube)

According to the written order, the designated head or officer in charge of the security department or custodian of records at Google LLC (YouTube) must block or remove access to the 27 specified YouTube channels. This directive was issued in response to a plea filed by the FIA under Section 94 of the Criminal Procedure Code.

Background of Peca Amendment Bill 2025

The controversial Prevention of Electronic Crimes (Peca) (Amendment) Bill 2025 was enacted in January. The updated legislation includes new definitions, establishes regulatory and investigative bodies, and imposes stricter penalties for spreading “false” information.

Peca 2025 allows individuals “aggrieved by fake and false information” to petition the authority for the removal or blocking of such content. The authority is mandated to issue orders within 24 hours of receiving the request.

Opposition to the Legislation

The legislation faced substantial opposition from rival parties within the ruling coalition, as well as from journalists and media organizations united under the Joint Action Committee (JAC).

The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) also released a report highlighting significant flaws in the Peca (Amendment) Act 2025, advocating for its complete repeal and rejecting any coercive application of previous versions of the law from 2016 and 2023.

Earlier in the year, journalists Farhan Mallick and Waheed Murad were arrested under the newly implemented law.