India Issues Advisory to TV Channels Over Coverage of Red Fort Blast

Delhi – The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) of India has issued a strict advisory on November 18 to all private satellite television channels, warning against the broadcast of sensitive content related to the recent Red Fort car bomb blast. The directive comes after the Ministry observed instances where certain news outlets aired material that appeared to justify acts of violence or included instructions on making explosive devices.

The advisory cautions that such broadcasts may inadvertently encourage extremist behavior, disrupt public order, and pose risks to national security. “All channels are advised to exercise the highest level of discretion and sensitivity while reporting on such matters,” the Ministry said, underscoring that responsible coverage is paramount when dealing with incidents that have security implications.

Broadcasters were reminded of their obligations under the Programme and Advertising Code of the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995. Specifically, the advisory highlighted Rules 6(1)(d), 6(1)(e), and 6(1)(h), which prohibit airing content that is obscene, defamatory, deliberately false, incites violence, promotes anti-national attitudes, disrupts law and order, or compromises the integrity of the nation. Channels were also instructed to avoid telecasting visuals or information that could “aid, abet, or promote unlawful activities.”

Deputy Secretary Arpitha S., who issued the advisory, noted that the directive had been shared with self-regulatory bodies under the Cable Television (Amendment) Rules, 2021, as well as relevant industry associations, and uploaded to the Broadcast Seva portal for wider dissemination.

While the advisory is framed as a measure to ensure responsible reporting, critics argue it also serves as a caution to media outlets against airing unverified claims that have, in recent weeks, drawn international scrutiny. Observers note that misleading or fabricated reports surrounding the Red Fort blast have at times cast India in an unfavorable light, highlighting the potential for such information to be exploited in broader information operations.

The Ministry’s intervention highlights the ongoing tension in India’s media landscape, where sensational reporting on sensitive security incidents can rapidly amplify misinformation, complicating both public understanding and national security efforts.