New Delhi, 26 April 2025: Keeping national security in mind, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has advised all media platforms, news agencies and social media users to avoid live coverage of defence operations and activities of security forces. The ministry has said that while reporting, everyone should strictly follow the existing laws and rules and act with full responsibility.
No Real-Time Reporting of Defence Operations
The ministry has made it clear that there should be no real-time coverage, visual broadcast or “source-based” reporting of any defence operations or activities of the forces. Untimely dissemination of such sensitive information can help hostile elements and pose a threat to the effectiveness of operations and safety of security personnel.
Citing past experiences, the ministry has said that unhindered media coverage during incidents like Kargil war, Mumbai terror attack (26/11) and Kandahar hijack had caused serious damage to national interests. These incidents have made it clear how important responsible reporting is in security-related matters.
The ministry has also said that media, digital platforms and individual users have an important role to play in maintaining national security. In addition to legal responsibilities, it is also a moral obligation that we all ensure that our collective activities do not harm any operations or actions of the security forces.
Cable Television Networks Rules and Compliance
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has reminded that earlier also TV channels have been advised under the Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules, 2021. As per Rule 6 (1) (p), no programme should be broadcast which includes live coverage of any anti-terrorist operation. Media coverage should be limited to periodic briefings given by an authorized government official only and this restriction shall remain in force till the operation is completed.
The ministry has further said that violation of this rule will be considered as a violation of the Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules, 2021 and action can be taken for it. Therefore, all TV channels have been advised not to carry live coverage of operations being carried out by security forces. Media coverage should be limited to briefings given by government officials only, so that the interests of national security are protected.
Ministry of Information and Broadcasting issues advisory to all Media channels to refrain from showing live coverage of defence operations and movement of security forces in the interest of national security. pic.twitter.com/MQjPvlexdr
— Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (@MIB_India) April 26, 2025
The Ministry has urged all stakeholders to keep reporting with vigilance, sensitivity and responsibility and serve the nation by adhering to the highest standards. Also, the Ministry has issued this advisory with the approval of the competent authority.
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