The Central government has directed television news channels to take stricter action against panelists who use abusive, vulgar, communal or inflammatory language during debates and discussions. Channels have been asked to mute the speaker’s microphone, display a disclaimer, stop the programme or suspend the live broadcast if such language is used.
In an advisory issued on Wednesday, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting also instructed channels to avoid live coverage of anti-terror operations and ensure that news reports are accurate and based on verified information.
The ministry said channels must exercise due care while selecting panelists and other participants in news debates. Immediate action should be taken if anyone uses offensive or inflammatory language during a programme.
According to the ministry, some private satellite television channels have failed to comply with the Programme Code under the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995, and the Cable Television Networks Rules, 1994.
No Live Coverage of Anti-Terror Operations
The Centre has instructed television channels not to broadcast anti-terror operations live. Channels have also been directed to use only maps approved by the Survey of India in their news reports and graphics.
The advisory further stated that artificial intelligence (AI) should be used only as an assisting tool in news production and must not compromise the accuracy or reliability of information.
Fact-Checking Mandatory for Crime and Violence Reports
The ministry has asked channels to ensure that reports related to crime and violence are factual, balanced and based on verified information. Reports based on incomplete details or misleading claims should be avoided.
Channels have also been instructed to exercise caution while showing violent, frightening or disturbing scenes. Such visuals should not be repeatedly broadcast, and blurring or masking should be used wherever necessary.
The advisory also cautioned against sensationalising crime or presenting illegal activities in a way that glorifies them or makes them appear normal.
Identity of Women and Child Victims Must Be Protected
The ministry has stressed the need for special care while reporting crimes against women and children. Channels must strictly follow Supreme Court directions prohibiting the disclosure of the identities of victims of sexual offences.
For reports on natural disasters, major accidents and other emergencies, channels have been advised to display the time of recorded visuals wherever necessary and rely only on verified information. The aim is to prevent misleading coverage and unnecessary panic among viewers.
The advisory followed a meeting of the Inter-Departmental Committee constituted under the Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules, 2021. The committee discussed compliance with the Programme Code by television channels.