New Delhi: In a significant move aimed at bolstering national security, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (I&B) has issued a formal advisory to all television channels, news agencies, digital media platforms, and social media users to refrain from live coverage of defence operations and the movement of security forces.
The advisory, issued from the Ministry’s office at Shastri Bhawan, underscores the critical importance of responsible media conduct in situations involving national security. The directive warns against the dissemination of real-time visuals, reporting based on unofficial or “source-based” information, and any coverage that could jeopardize the safety and effectiveness of security personnel.
Why the Advisory?
Citing historical examples such as the Kargil War, the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, and the Kandahar hijacking, the Ministry emphasized that live and unrestricted coverage during sensitive operations in the past had unintended adverse effects. These included providing crucial intelligence to hostile actors and compromising operational integrity.
“The premature disclosure of sensitive information may inadvertently assist hostile elements and endanger operational effectiveness and the safety of personnel,” the advisory notes.
Legal Basis for the Advisory
The Ministry reminded media organizations of the Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules, 2021, particularly Rule 6(1)(p), which explicitly prohibits live telecast of anti-terrorist operations. According to the rule:
“No programme should be carried in the cable service which contains live coverage of any anti-terrorist operation by security forces, wherein media coverage shall be restricted to periodic briefing by an officer designated by the appropriate Government, till such operation concludes.”
Violations of this rule are liable for action under the said regulation.
A Call to Collective Responsibility
Beyond legal obligations, the advisory appealed to the moral responsibility of all stakeholders, emphasizing that safeguarding national interests is a shared duty. The Ministry highlighted the pivotal role that the media and digital platforms play in national security and called for the highest standards of vigilance and sensitivity in their reportage.
“All stakeholders are requested to continue exercising vigilance, sensitivity, and responsibility in coverage, upholding the highest standards in the service of the nation,” the advisory states.
Approved and Effective Immediately
This directive has been issued with the approval of the competent authority within the Ministry and is effective immediately.
The Ministry has urged media houses to limit coverage of security operations strictly to verified, periodic briefings issued by designated government officials until such operations are concluded.
This advisory serves as a timely reminder of the balance between press freedom and national security. While transparency is vital in a democracy, the lives of security personnel and operational integrity must take precedence during critical moments.
