Diplomat Correspondent
New Delhi, (DD)In a strongly worded advisory issued on Thursday, the Government of India has directed all television channels, digital news platforms, and individual content creators to refrain from live coverage or real-time reporting of defence operations and troop movements, citing serious threats to national security and operational effectiveness.
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting emphasized that unauthorized disclosures — including visuals, locations, or tactical details — could jeopardize ongoing missions and endanger lives of security personnel and civilians. The advisory comes amid heightened tensions along the Line of Control (LoC) following recent cross-border shelling in Jammu and Kashmir’s Uri, Karnah, and Tangdhar sectors.
Officials referenced past incidents like the Kargil War, 26/11 Mumbai attacks, and the Kandahar hijacking as cautionary examples of how premature or sensationalized reporting can inadvertently aid hostile actors.
The government reiterated that only authorized briefings by designated officials are permitted during counterterrorism or military operations, in accordance with Clause 6(1)(p) of the Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules, 2021. Any violations could invite regulatory action.
“All stakeholders are urged to exercise utmost vigilance, sensitivity, and responsibility in media coverage during national security operations,” the statement concluded, underscoring the press’s role in safeguarding the nation while upholding ethical journalism.(DD)