Diplomat Correspondent
New Delhi, DD: The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has issued a formal advisory to television channels, digital media platforms, and social media users, instructing them to refrain from live coverage of defence operations and troop movements due to national security concerns.
Issued by Deputy Director Kshitij Aggarwal with the approval of competent authorities, the advisory urges media outlets to act responsibly while reporting on defence-related matters and follow existing laws and guidelines strictly.
“It is advised that all media entities and individuals avoid real-time visuals, disclosures, or speculative reporting related to security forces’ operations or deployments,” the advisory reads. It warns that premature sharing of sensitive information could inadvertently aid hostile elements, undermine the success of operations, and put lives at risk.
The ministry referred to past incidents such as the Kargil conflict, the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, and the Kandahar hijacking, where unrestricted media coverage reportedly had unintended consequences for national security.
The advisory also reminded broadcasters of Rule 6(1)(p) under the Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules, 2021, which prohibits live coverage of anti-terrorist operations. Any violation is subject to appropriate action under the law. Coverage should be restricted to periodic briefings provided by designated government officials until the operation concludes.
The ministry concluded by urging all media stakeholders to exercise caution, maintain sensitivity, and uphold journalistic responsibility in the interest of national security(DD)
