On April 29, 2025, the Government of India ordered YouTube to block the “4 PM News” channel, followed by over 7 million viewers. The government cited “national security or public order” but failed to provide any specific reasons or evidence, and there was no official notice to the editor-in-chief, Sanjay Sharma. The channel’s removal, without prior warning or opportunity for response, led to outrage among journalists and rights advocates, who emphasized issues of press freedom, transparency, and denial of due process.

 HRDA calls upon NHRC to take suo moto cognizance under Section 12(a) of the Protection of Human Rights (Amendment) Act, 2019, and to initiate an independent investigation through its investigation wing, ensuring impartial review of the circumstances and protection for media freedom.