New Delhi, April 26: The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has issued an advisory to media channels, news agencies and digital platforms, urging them to avoid live coverage of defence operations and the movement of security forces.
The ministry stressed that such reporting could compromise national security and the safety of personnel involved.
Citing past incidents such as the Kargil war, the 26/11 Mumbai attacks and the Kandahar hijacking, the advisory accentuated how unrestricted media coverage had unintended consequences, aiding hostile elements and endangering operations.
The ministry reminded all stakeholders of their responsibility to act in the nation’s interest, both legally and morally.
The advisory reinforces Rule 6(1)(p) of the Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules, 2021, which prohibits live coverage of anti-terrorist operations.
It states that any information or visuals related to such operations must be restricted to official briefings by government-appointed officers until the conclusion of the operation.
The ministry has warned that violating these guidelines will invite legal action under the applicable rules.
It also appealed to media platforms to prioritize operational secrecy and refrain from premature disclosures that could jeopardize ongoing efforts.
