It's war time !! "No live coverage of Defence operations" .... Govt issues Advisory to Media channels and social media to refrain from showing live coverage of Defence operations and movement of security forces

(During Kargil conflict, a TV journalist shared Indian army's programme of attacking Tiger Hill the next day ) 

Advisory to all Media channels to refrain from showing live coverage of Defence operations and movement of security forces 

"In the interest of national security, all media platforms, news agencies, and social media users are advised to exercise utmost responsibility and adhere strictly to existing laws and regulations while reporting on matters concerning defence and other security related operations," an official advisory note said.

It further states that - No real-time coverage, dissemination of visuals, or reporting based on "sources-based" information related to Defence operations or movement should be undertaken. 

file snap 

Premature disclosure of sensitive information may inadvertently assist hostile elements and endanger operational effectiveness and the safety of personnel.

The note from the ministry of Information and Broadcastng said - the past incidents have underscored the importance of responsible reporting. 

During events such as the Kargil war, the Mumbai terror attacks (26/11), and the Kandahar hijacking, unrestricted coverage had unintended adverse consequences on national interests, it pointed out. 

Media, digital platforms, and individuals play a vital role in safeguarding national security. 

Apart from the legal obligations, it is a shared moral responsibility to ensure that our collective actions do not compromise ongoing operations or the security of our forces.

26/11 - Media did 'sin' in live coverage led to killing of a soldier 

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has earlier already issued advisories to all TV channels to adhere to Rule 6(1)(p) of Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules, 2021). 

Rule 6(1)(p) states that No programme should be carried in the cable service which contains live coverage of any anti-terrorist operation by security forces, wherein media coverage shall be restricted to periodic briefing by an officer designated by the appropriate Government, till such operation concludes."

Such telecast is in violation of Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules, 2021 and is liable for action thereunder. 

Therefore, all TV channels are advised not to telecast live coverage of anti-terrorist operation and movement by the security forces in interest of national security. 

Media coverage may be restricted to periodic briefing by an officer designated by the appropriate Government till such operation concludes.

All stakeholders are requested to continue exercising vigilance, sensitivity, and responsibility in coverage, upholding the highest standards in the service of the nation.

ends