New Delhi [India], April 26 (ANI):
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has issued an advisory directing all media platforms to refrain from live coverage of defense operations and movements of security forces.
This advisory follows closely on the heels of the Pahalgam terror attack, which resulted in the tragic loss of 26 lives.
“In the interest of national security, all media platforms, news agencies, and social media users are urged to exercise the utmost responsibility and to adhere strictly to existing laws and regulations when reporting on matters related to defense and other security operations,” stated the advisory issued on Sunday.
It further emphasized, “Specifically: No real-time coverage, dissemination of visuals, or reporting based on ‘source-based’ information concerning defense operations or troop movements should be undertaken. Premature disclosure of sensitive information could inadvertently aid hostile elements and jeopardize operational effectiveness and the safety of personnel.”
The advisory cited previous incidents to underscore the importance of responsible reporting.
“During the Kargil War, the Mumbai terror attacks (26/11), and the Kandahar hijacking, unrestricted media coverage had unintended and adverse consequences for national interests,” it noted.
It stressed the critical role of media, digital platforms, and individuals in safeguarding national security.
“Beyond legal obligations, there exists a shared moral responsibility to ensure that collective actions do not compromise ongoing operations or endanger the security of our forces,” the advisory added.
The Ministry recalled that it had previously issued advisories to all television channels regarding adherence to Rule 6(1)(p) of the Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules, 2021.
Rule 6(1)(p) stipulates, “No program should be broadcast through cable services that includes live coverage of any anti-terrorist operation by security forces, except for periodic briefings by an officer designated by the appropriate government, until the conclusion of the operation.”
The advisory reaffirmed that violation of this rule could lead to punitive action under the Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules, 2021.
“Accordingly, all television channels are advised against telecasting live coverage of anti-terrorist operations and movements of security forces, in the interest of national security. Media coverage should be restricted to periodic briefings provided by a designated government officer until the operation concludes,” it emphasized.
“All stakeholders are requested to continue exercising vigilance, sensitivity, and responsibility in their coverage, upholding the highest standards in service of the nation,” the advisory concluded.
Meanwhile, the government has vowed that the terrorists responsible for the attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam, along with their conspirators, will face stringent punishment. Opposition parties have expressed their full support for any government action against those responsible for the heinous attack.
The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) convened on April 23 and was given a detailed briefing on the Pahalgam terrorist attack, which claimed the lives of 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen.
Several others sustained injuries during the assault. The CCS strongly condemned the attack, extended its deepest condolences to the victims’ families, and expressed hopes for the swift recovery of the injured.
During the briefing, officials highlighted the cross-border linkages associated with the terrorist attack. It was noted that the assault occurred in the wake of successful elections in the Union Territory and its steady advancement toward economic growth and development.
In response, the government announced a series of decisive measures, including the suspension of the Indus Water Treaty, delivering a strong message to Pakistan regarding its alleged support for cross-border terrorism. (ANI)
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