India's Ministry of Information Warns TV Channels on Red Fort Blast Coverage
Image Source: Internet
NEW DELHI: India's Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has issued a warning to private TV channels to exercise caution while reporting on the Red Fort blasts. The advisory, issued on Tuesday, cautions channels against broadcasting content that could encourage or incite violence, or pose a risk to national security.Ministry officials have noted that some channels have been airing content that justifies the violent acts of those involved in the blasts, and also provide instructions on how to make explosive materials. Such broadcasts can inadvertently encourage violence, disrupt public order, and compromise national security.The advisory reminds channels of their obligations under the Programme and Advertising Code, which prohibits content that is obscene, defamatory, or likely to encourage violence. It also points to specific rules that prohibit content that promotes anti-national attitudes or affects the integrity of the nation.On November 10, a car explosion near the Red Fort metro station left 12 people dead, including the driver, who was identified as the suicide bomber by the National Investigation Agency. The ministry has advised channels to avoid broadcasting visuals that could aid or promote unlawful activities. The advisory has been sent to self-regulatory bodies, electronic media associations, and the Broadcast Seva Portal.
