National: In a strong diplomatic move, the Indian government has formally protested against the BBC’s coverage of the recent Pahalgam terror attack, objecting to the broadcaster’s use of the word “militants” instead of “terrorists” when referring to the perpetrators.
Officials confirmed Monday that a formal letter was sent to Jackie Martin, BBC’s India Head, by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), emphasizing India’s displeasure over the terminology used in reports about the tragic incident, which claimed 26 lives—mostly tourists in Kashmir.
“The External Publicity Division of the MEA will be monitoring the reporting of the BBC,” an official added, indicating heightened scrutiny of foreign media narratives on terrorism-related incidents in India.
In a parallel action, India has banned 16 Pakistan-based YouTube channels accused of spreading communally sensitive misinformation following the Pahalgam attack. The ban, recommended by the Ministry of Home Affairs, aims to curb the spread of provocative content amid a tense atmosphere, officials said.
The moves come just days after the Pahalgam attack, considered the deadliest terror strike in Jammu and Kashmir since the 2019 Pulwama tragedy.