India
In a significant move reflecting India’s growing assertiveness in countering foreign propaganda, the Indian government on Wednesday blocked the X (formerly Twitter) account of Global Times, the state-run media arm of the Chinese Communist Party. The decision comes in the backdrop of rising tensions between India and Pakistan following Operation Sindoor—India’s precision strikes on terror infrastructure in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
The ban followed a public warning issued by the Indian Embassy in China on May 7, where it called out Global Times for spreading “disinformation” without verifying facts. “Dear Global Times News, we would recommend you verify your facts and cross-examine your sources before pushing out this kind of disinformation,” the embassy said in a post on X.
India’s External Affairs Ministry also issued a strong statement criticizing foreign media platforms and pro-Pakistan social media accounts for attempting to distort facts related to the military operation. “When media outlets share such information without verifying sources, it reflects a serious lapse in responsibility and journalistic ethics,” the Indian mission added.
The action against Global Times underscores India’s concern over coordinated disinformation campaigns, particularly during sensitive moments involving national security. Indian officials believe that certain foreign outlets, especially those aligned with Beijing’s narrative, often amplify anti-India sentiments or attempt to sow confusion during times of crisis.
The crackdown came just as India was dealing with retaliatory attempts by Pakistan to strike Indian military positions on May 8, 9, and 10—following India’s airstrikes in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives.
Adding to the tension, China’s renewed assertion over Arunachal Pradesh further strained diplomatic ties. India hit back strongly, calling Beijing’s attempt to rename areas in the northeastern state “vain and preposterous,” reaffirming that Arunachal Pradesh remains an “integral and inalienable part of India.”
As India juggles military preparedness, diplomatic pressure, and narrative control, the banning of Global Times serves as a signal to foreign actors: disinformation will be met with decisive digital retaliation.
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