How Pakistan is Using Foreign Influencers to Shape Negative Narratives About India

Pakistan's Strategy to Shift Perceptions

New Delhi: Following the fallout from Operation Sindoor, Pakistan has been actively attempting to reshape its image in the eyes of the world, particularly against India.

The Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) has been on the lookout for influencers to promote Pakistan's narrative while simultaneously undermining India's reputation. A specialized unit within the ISI is tasked with identifying these influencers and persuading them to create content that aligns with Islamabad's agenda.

In the wake of the Pahalgam attack, Indian authorities apprehended several influencers, including Jyoti Malhotra. Recent reports indicate that the ISI is now enlisting foreign influencers to cast India in a negative light.

These influencers, believed to be funded by the ISI, enter India on tourist visas and produce videos that disparage the country. They often choose budget accommodations, suggesting that such options are the norm in India.

Additionally, they consume food intended for the underprivileged and convey through their videos that this represents the reality for all Indians.

There are also circulating videos that misrepresent the Jammu and Kashmir situation. These influencers travel to the Union Territory and refer to it as 'Indian occupied Kashmir,' echoing Pakistan's terminology. India has consistently rejected Pakistan's claims, asserting that Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of the nation.

Intelligence agencies monitoring these vloggers have noted the ISI's capability in executing such operations. Initially, the ISI recruited numerous Indian influencers, inviting them to Pakistan with lucrative offers to promote a positive image of the country.

In recent years, Pakistan has faced global ridicule due to its inadequate infrastructure and a struggling economy, compounded by scrutiny from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF). The embarrassment from Operation Sindoor and issues along the Afghan border have further tarnished Pakistan's image.

The strategy of employing foreign influencers to generate negative content about India appears to be a calculated move to alter perceptions.

Within Pakistan, there is growing discontent regarding the government's failure to foster development and address economic challenges. The content produced by these foreign influencers is widely disseminated within the country.

The intent is to inform the Pakistani populace that the situation in neighboring India is also dire. The ISI's influencer initiative marks a significant shift in strategy. While these influencers may not be directly gathering intelligence, their role is to shape perceptions about Pakistan.

Following the arrests of Jyoti Malhotra and others, it has been revealed that the Pakistan High Commission is involved in this operation.

The High Commission not only identifies potential influencers but also facilitates their travel by providing visas, ensuring a smooth journey to Pakistan. Authorities are investigating whether any foreign influencers have been in contact with the High Commission or received directives from Islamabad.