The North News
New Delhi, April 26
In a major directive aimed at safeguarding national security, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting on Saturday instructed media organisations to refrain from broadcasting live coverage of defence operations and the movement of security forces. The Ministry, sharing the guidelines in a public advisory, urged all media platforms, news agencies, and social media users to exercise “utmost responsibility” and comply with existing laws and regulations while reporting on matters related to defence and security operations.
Specifically, the Ministry warned against real-time coverage, dissemination of visuals, or reporting based on “source-based” information during ongoing military activities. Officials stressed that premature disclosure of sensitive information could inadvertently aid hostile forces and jeopardise both operational success and the safety of security personnel.
Citing previous incidents, the advisory pointed to lessons learned from unrestricted media coverage during critical events such as the 1999 Kargil conflict, the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, and the 1999 Kandahar hijacking. In each case, authorities noted, extensive live reporting had unintended and adverse consequences for national interests.
The government underscored that while legal obligations exist, a shared moral responsibility rests with the media, digital platforms, and individuals to ensure that their actions do not compromise ongoing operations or endanger security personnel.
The Ministry also reminded television channels of their obligations under Rule 6(1)(p) of the Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules, 2021. The rule prohibits live coverage of any anti-terrorist operations and mandates that information be disseminated only through official briefings by a designated government officer until operations are concluded.
Violations of these regulations, the Ministry warned, could lead to punitive action under the Cable Television Networks Act. All TV channels were advised to restrict their reporting to periodic updates provided officially, avoiding any live transmission of movements or tactical details.
The Ministry concluded by urging all stakeholders to uphold vigilance, sensitivity, and responsibility in their coverage, maintaining the highest standards of journalism in the interest of national security. The advisory, officials said, was issued with the approval of the competent authority.
