Advisory urges restraint, warns against real-time coverage of security operations
Diplomat Correspondent
Jammu, (DD): The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India, in an advisory issued today, directed all media channels to refrain from live coverage of defence operations and movement of security forces in the interest of national security.
According to the advisory, a copy of which lies with Diplomat Digital, all media platforms, news agencies, and social media users have been advised to exercise utmost responsibility and strictly adhere to existing laws and regulations while reporting on matters concerning defence and security-related operations. The advisory clearly mentions that no real-time coverage, dissemination of visuals, or “sources-based” reporting related to defence operations or troop movement should be undertaken, as premature disclosure of sensitive information could endanger operational effectiveness and the safety of personnel.
Highlighting past incidents like the Kargil War, Mumbai terror attacks (26/11), and the Kandahar hijacking, the Ministry pointed out that unrestricted coverage had unintended adverse consequences on national interests.
The advisory further underlined that media, digital platforms, and individuals have a moral responsibility to ensure their actions do not compromise the security of ongoing operations or the safety of security forces.
It was also reiterated that the Ministry had previously issued advisories to all TV channels to adhere to Rule 6(1)(p) of the Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules, 2021, which prohibits live coverage of any anti-terrorist operation by security forces, limiting media coverage to periodic briefings by designated officers.
The advisory warned that any violation of the rules would invite appropriate action. Media coverage must, therefore, be restricted until official briefings are made available by the competent authorities.
This advisory has been issued with the approval of the competent authority, the statement reads.(DD)