JNS: In a firm move against disinformation, India has restricted access to social media accounts of Chinese state-run news agencies Global Times, Xinhua, and Turkish broadcaster TRT World. The decision follows a surge in false narratives circulating online, particularly around Operation Sindoor and the Pahalgam terror attack.
The Indian Embassy in China had earlier issued a sharp rebuke to Global Times, stating on social media:
“Dear Global Timesnews, we would recommend you verify your facts and cross-examine your sources before pushing out this kind of disinformation.”
This came after several pro-Pakistan handles and sympathetic media outlets spread unverified claims—most notably, that an Indian Rafale jet was downed near Bahawalpur. The Embassy called such reporting a “serious lapse in responsibility and journalistic ethics.”
India’s action against TRT World also comes amid growing domestic outrage over Turkey’s open support for Pakistan following the Pahalgam massacre, where 26 civilians, mostly tourists, were killed by Pakistan-sponsored terrorists. As a result, calls for a boycott of Turkish goods and travel to Turkey and Azerbaijan have gained momentum.
Indian travel platforms like EaseMyTrip and Ixigo have advised users against visiting these countries, while several Indian traders have reportedly begun pulling Turkish products—such as marble and apples—from their shelves.
Experts suggest that India’s trade and diplomatic ties with Turkey and Azerbaijan may come under increased pressure, as public sentiment turns against nations seen backing Islamabad in the aftermath of India’s strategic counterterror operations.
This development underscores New Delhi’s growing intolerance for international misinformation campaigns and its willingness to counter propaganda with strong digital and diplomatic responses.
