No More Loose Talk: Centre Warns Private TV Channels to Follow Programme Code
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting warns private TV channels to follow the Programme Code or face action under the Cable Television Act.
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) has issued a stern warning to all private satellite television channels, demanding strict adherence to the private TV channels programme code. In a comprehensive advisory, the government has made it clear that any violations of the prescribed guidelines could lead to serious legal action under the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995, and its associated rules.
Why the Crackdown?
This move comes after the Inter-Departmental Committee (IDC), established under the Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules, 2021, observed that many telecasts were failing to align with the spirit of Rule 6 of the Cable Television Networks Rules, 1994. The committee specifically noted a trend where multiple channels were broadcasting identical news and visuals on the same topics, often ignoring the ethical boundaries of the Programme Code.
The ministry has emphasized that "inappropriate behaviour or language should not be normalised in telecasts," urging broadcasters to follow the rules in both letter and spirit.
The Eight-Point Warning: Key Restrictions
The advisory outlines several critical areas where private channels must exercise restraint and responsibility:
1. Anti-Terror Operations
The MIB reiterated that live coverage of security force operations against terrorists is strictly prohibited under Rule 6(1)(p). To prevent misleading the public, the ministry advised that:
- Coverage should be limited to periodic briefings provided by authorized officers until the operation is over.
- Visuals must be duly time-stamped to ensure they are not mistaken for live broadcasts.
Notably, the government had previously issued similar warnings on June 12, 2024, and April 26, 2025.
2. Handling Violent and Disturbing Content
Broadcasters have been told to use editorial discretion when airing graphic or violent imagery to avoid offending public decency or causing distress to viewers. The ministry highlighted that:
- Crime and violence reporting must be balanced, responsible, and based on verified facts.
- Sensationalism that glorifies or normalizes unlawful behavior is forbidden.
- The excessive repetition of disturbing visuals should be avoided, and blurring or masking should be used wherever necessary.
3. Protection of Vulnerable Groups
The advisory stresses the need for extreme due diligence and sensitivity when telecasting visuals related to crimes against women and children.
4. Disaster and Accident Reporting
To prevent widespread panic, channels covering natural calamities, major accidents, or disasters are required to time-stamp their visuals and ensure all reporting is grounded in verified information.
5. National Integrity and Maps
In a move to ensure accuracy and national pride, the ministry has mandated the use of authentic maps of India, as published by the Survey of India, in all telecasts, graphics, and digital representations.
6. Communal Harmony and Live Debates
The government is keeping a close eye on news debates. Channels are directed to ensure that panel discussions do not promote anti-national attitudes or communal hatred. The MIB suggested several safeguards:
- Strict editorial control over the selection and pre-sensitization of panelists.
- Immediate corrective measures, such as muting the audio, inserting disclaimers, or interrupting/discontinuing the feed if the content becomes derogatory, abusive, or inflammatory.
By issuing this advisory, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting aims to ensure that the airwaves remain a space for responsible journalism rather than sensationalism or instability.