YouTubers, vloggers banned from making videos in Kalash valley

YouTubers and vloggers have been banned from making videos during the Chamos winter festival in Kalash valley of Chitral.

This was decided during a meeting regarding the security arrangements for the festival, held under the chairmanship of Qaiser Raza of the Chitral Scouts 146 Wing at the Bamborat Officer's Mess.

The meeting was also attended by police representatives, tourism department representatives, media, and heads of institutions concerned, as well as local elders, the Qazi of the Kailash tribe, and representatives of the hotel association.

The Chamos winter festival is being held from December 16 to December 22 this year. The officers reviewed in detail the arrangements for the festival. They issued instructions to the heads of the institutions concerned to provide cleanliness, security, and all possible facilities to the tourists.

The officials also directed that no YouTuber or vlogger would be allowed to record videos without permission. Strict legal action will be taken against the violators so that the people of Kalash tribe can celebrate their religious festivals according to their traditions.

The officers also issued instructions to the officials of the security agencies to keep a close watch on suspicious people.

“A ban has been imposed on tourists/YouTubers on making videos and interviewing Kalash women without permission during the valley festival. Legal action will be taken over violation of Section 144,” said Lower Chitral Deputy Commissioner Muhammad Imran Khan.