Ban on live coverage of defense campaigns, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting issued advisory to all media channels
New Delhi. The Union Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has issued an important advisory for all media channels, news agencies and social media users on Saturday today. It has been instructed to take precautions in the interest of national security and strictly follow the existing laws and rules. The advisory clearly states that any “real -time coverage”, visual broadcast or “source -based” information should not be broadcast of any type of defense operations or security forces activities. Disclosing sensitive information ahead of time can benefit hostile elements and the efficiency and safety of our security forces may be in danger.
The ministry has also reminded examples of the past, such as the Kargil War, the Mumbai terror attack (26/11) and the Kandahar kidnapping incidents, where uncontrolled coverage adversely affected national interests. Therefore, media, digital platforms and common citizens have been expected to not only follow legal obligations but also to fulfill the moral responsibility towards national security.
The advisory also mentions that earlier all TV channels were directed to follow Rule 6 (1) (P) of the Cable Television Network (Amendment) Rules, 2021. Under this rule, “live coverage of any anti-terrorism campaign has been banned and the media will only have to be limited to the government-appointed officer from time to time to briefing, until the campaign is over.” Action will be taken against it if a channel is violated by a channel.
The ministry has reiterated that all TV channels, media platforms and social media users follow vigilance, sensitivity and responsibility for the security of the country, and maintain the highest standards in the nation service. This advisory has been released with the approval of the competent authority.