India's press community is up in arms after the sudden blocking of the popular YouTube channel 4 PM News, which boasted over 7.3 million subscribers. The move, reportedly made on the Union government's orders, has sparked serious concerns about press freedom and transparency.

YouTube stated that the channel was taken down due to “an order from the government related to national security or public order.” However, several press bodies believe the real reason might be linked to the channel's recent coverage.

4 PM News had reportedly questioned potential security lapses behind the tragic loss of lives in Pahalgam. Instead of receiving answers, the platform was taken down - a move that journalists argue is deeply troubling in a democratic nation.

In a joint statement, the Press Club of India, Indian Women's Press Corps, Press Association, Delhi Union of Journalists, and Kerala Union of Working Journalists (Delhi Unit) called the takedown an attack on the constitutional right to freedom of speech.

“Dissent is not a threat - it's essential for democracy,” the statement said. They've demanded the immediate restoration of the channel and a transparent explanation from the government.

The press bodies warned that such actions set a dangerous precedent and stifle public discourse. “The people deserve answers, not censorship,” they concluded.