The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (I&B) issued an Advisory directing all Private Satellite TV channels to exercise the highest level of discretion and sensitivity when reporting on recent sensitive incidents.
The Ministry observed that some news channels have been broadcasting content related to alleged persons involved in the Red Fort blasts that justifies their acts of violence. Additionally, information and videos showing how to make explosive material have also been broadcast.
The Ministry noted that such broadcasts may inadvertently encourage or incite violence, disrupt public order, and pose risks to national security.
Directives and Statutory Compliance
All private satellite TV channels are advised that they must ensure strict compliance with the Programme and Advertising Code under the Cable Television Net-works (Regulation) Act, 1995.
The Ministry explicitly stated that such broadcasts may violate the Cable Television Network Rules. Specifically, programs should not violate the following rules:
- Should contain anything obscene, defamatory, deliberately false, or suggestive innuendos and half-truths.
- Should not be likely to encourage or incite violence, contain anything against the maintenance of law and order, or promote anti-national attitudes.
- Should not contain anything that affects the integrity of the Nation.
All TV channels are further advised to avoid telecasting visuals that could aid, abet or promote unlawful activities.