The Press Club of India on Tuesday strongly condemned the Union government’s decision to block the YouTube channel of 4PM News, calling it a direct attack on press freedom.
The news outlet, which had over 7.3 million subscribers, was blocked on April 29. When users attempt to access the channel, YouTube now displays a message that it is “unavailable in this country because of an order by the government related to national security or public order.”
In a statement, the journalists’ body said,“Taking down the YouTube channel for asking questions is a direct attack on freedom of speech, which is enshrined in Article 19(1)(a) of the Indian Constitution.”
The Press Club stressed the importance of dissent in a democracy, saying it is crucial for transparency, accountability, and strengthening democratic values.
“Such actions set a dangerous precedent, eroding trust, stifling discourse apart from having an overall chilling effect. The public deserves answers, not censorship,” the statement added.
Calling on the government to reverse its decision, the Press Club urged authorities to reinstate the blocked channel and its regional-language versions.
“We urge and demand that the Union government, in the interest of transparency and disclosure, restore the availability of 4PM News and its multi-lingual channels.”
The move to block the channel has sparked criticism from journalists, activists, and media watchdogs, who fear such actions could further shrink space for critical voices online.
