IndiaPosted at: Oct 21 2026 6:59PM


MIB warns TV channels against Programme Code violations, cautions against live anti-terror operation coverage

New Delhi, Oct 21 (UNI) The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has advised all private satellite television channels to strictly adhere to the Programme Code under the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995, warning that violations could invite action under the law.
In an advisory issued on Wednesday, the Ministry flagged instances of non-compliance with the statutory provisions governing television content and said broadcasts by various channels were not in conformity with the spirit of the Programme Code. The Inter-Departmental Committee (IDC), constituted under the Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules, 2021, also observed that multiple channels were airing similar news and visuals on similar subjects.
The committee recommended strict adherence to the prescribed rules and emphasised that inappropriate behaviour and language should not be normalised through television broadcasts.
The Ministry reiterated that live coverage of anti-terrorist operations by security forces is prohibited under Rule 6(1)(p) of the Cable Television Networks Rules, 1994. Media coverage during such operations must be restricted to periodic briefings by an authorised officer until the operation concludes. Channels have also been advised to time-stamp visuals, wherever necessary, to prevent archived footage from creating a misleading impression of live coverage.
The advisory calls for greater editorial discretion while broadcasting violent, graphic or disturbing visuals, warning against excessive repetition or looping of such footage. Reporting on crime, violence, accidents and incidents involving deaths must be based on verified facts and presented in a balanced and responsible manner, without sensationalism, misleading insinuations or half-truths.
Channels have been asked to use blurring or masking techniques wherever required to protect viewers from distressing visuals and ensure compliance with the prescribed standards of good taste and decency. Special care must also be taken while broadcasting content relating to crimes against women and children.
The Ministry directed broadcasters to ensure that coverage of natural disasters, major accidents and other significant incidents is based on verified information. Visuals should be time-stamped, wherever necessary, to avoid creating unnecessary panic among viewers.
Reiterating the requirement to uphold national integrity, the advisory asked channels to use only authentic maps of India published by the Survey of India in television broadcasts, graphics and digital representations.
On debate programmes and panel discussions, the Ministry stressed that broadcasters must ensure content does not promote communal or anti-national attitudes. It called for adequate editorial oversight, including careful selection and prior sensitisation of panellists and participants. Channels should take immediate corrective measures, such as muting, issuing disclaimers, interrupting or discontinuing the feed, to prevent the broadcast of derogatory, abusive or inflammatory content.
The advisory also underscored the need to protect the identities of victims of sexual offences in accordance with Supreme Court directions and applicable laws. Broadcasters must not disclose direct or indirect identifying details, including photographs, family information, locality or other particulars that could reveal a victim's identity.
Flagging the use of artificial intelligence, including generative AI, the Ministry advised channels to exercise caution when deploying such tools for graphics, virtual news presentations and other programme content. AI should be used in an assistive capacity without compromising the accuracy, authenticity or sensitivity of news coverage.
The Ministry further asked broadcasters to strengthen editorial and content-review mechanisms and sensitise personnel involved in news gathering, editing, production, transmission and telecast to the provisions of the Programme Code. Regular workshops and training sessions for editorial and production teams were also recommended.
The advisory reiterated that compliance with the statutory requirements was mandatory and that any violation of the Programme Code could invite action under the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995, and the rules framed under it.UNI PWS AAB
Tags: #MIB warns TV channels against Programme Code violations# cautions against live anti-terror operation coverage
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