Today, On 26th April, In the interest of national security, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting advises media platforms, news agencies, and social media users to follow laws and regulations when reporting on defence and security-related operations.
New Delhi: The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting issued an important advisory to all media channels, including TV networks, social media platforms, and news agencies, urging them to refrain from broadcasting live coverage of defence operations and movements of security forces.
This advisory has significant implications for national security, media practices, and legal regulations concerning sensitive information.
The advisory reads,
“In the interest of national security, all media platforms, news agencies, and social media users are advised to exercise utmost responsibility and adhere strictly to existing laws and regulations while reporting on matters concerning defence and other security-related operations,”
The advisory was issued in light of concerns that the live broadcast of military operations and real-time movement details could pose risks to national security and the safety of armed forces personnel.
The Government of India has reiterated the need for all media outlets to handle sensitive security matters with great caution, following established legal norms and security regulations.
Here is a detailed breakdown of the advisory and its legal significance.
The advisory emphasized the following points:
- National Security Concern: The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting stressed the importance of national security. It advised that all media channels, news agencies, and even social media users must exercise utmost responsibility when reporting on defence and security-related activities. The advisory warned that any premature disclosure of sensitive information about defence operations could inadvertently aid hostile forces, jeopardizing the safety of personnel and the success of the operations.
- Live Coverage Prohibited: The Ministry specifically directed that there should be no real-time coverage, dissemination of visuals, or reporting based on “sources-based” information concerning the movements or operations of the defence forces. This directive aims to prevent the release of sensitive information that could compromise national security. The advisory underlined that such disclosures could unintentionally provide critical details to adversaries, who may use them to disrupt military actions.
- Past Incidents as Examples: The Ministry referenced several past events to highlight the consequences of unrestricted media coverage. “Past incidents have underscored the importance of responsible reporting. During events such as the Kargil war, the Mumbai terror attacks (26/11), and the Kandahar hijacking, unrestricted coverage had unintended adverse consequences on national interests.” This statement draws attention to the risks posed by live media broadcasts in high-stakes situations, where sensitive details can easily be exploited by enemy forces.
- Media’s Role in National Security: The advisory stressed the critical role that media, digital platforms, and individuals play in safeguarding national security. It acknowledged that media outlets have a significant responsibility to ensure their coverage does not harm ongoing military operations or compromise the safety of security personnel. The advisory emphasized that, apart from the legal requirements, there is a shared moral responsibility to act with caution and diligence in reporting on defence and security matters.
- Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules, 2021: The Ministry pointed out that it had previously issued advisories reminding TV channels to follow Rule 6(1)(p) of the Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules, 2021. This rule specifically prohibits the live coverage of any anti-terrorist operation by security forces. The rule states, “No programme should be carried in the cable service which contains live coverage of any anti-terrorist operation by security forces, wherein media coverage shall be restricted to periodic briefing by an officer designated by the appropriate Government, till such operation concludes.” The Ministry reiterated that non-compliance with this rule could lead to action under the applicable laws.
- Violation of the Rules: The advisory clarified that any media channels that broadcast live coverage of anti-terrorist operations would be in violation of the Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules, 2021. The Ministry warned that such channels could face legal consequences for disobeying the regulations. The Ministry reiterated, “Such telecast is in violation of Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules, 2021 and is liable for action thereunder.” Media outlets were further advised to avoid live broadcasts of security operations and instead limit their coverage to periodic briefings conducted by authorized government officers.
- Call for Vigilance and Responsibility: The advisory concluded with a reminder to all stakeholders, including media outlets, to continue exercising vigilance, sensitivity, and responsibility in their coverage of national security issues. It called on all parties to uphold the highest standards of reporting, especially when covering sensitive topics that could impact national safety and security. “All stakeholders are requested to continue exercising vigilance, sensitivity, and responsibility in coverage, upholding the highest standards in the service of the nation.”
The advisory comes with the approval of the competent authority in the Ministry, and it highlights the government’s commitment to ensuring that media coverage does not undermine national security interests.
It is clear that the Government of India is prioritizing the safety of armed forces personnel and the protection of sensitive defence information through this directive.
The legal framework surrounding media coverage of defence operations is grounded in the need to balance transparency with national security. The Ministry’s advisory aligns with provisions under the Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules, 2021, emphasizing the importance of adhering to established guidelines.
These rules are designed to prevent the leak of sensitive information that could benefit adversaries and harm national interests. The advisory serves as a reminder that media outlets must be cautious and ensure that their actions align with both the legal and moral responsibilities of safeguarding national security.
This advisory from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting marks a critical step in strengthening the protection of sensitive military operations from the risks associated with unrestricted media coverage. It serves as an important reminder of the significant role media plays in national security and the need for responsible journalism, especially in times of heightened security concerns.
The directive aims to safeguard the interests of the nation, its armed forces, and the overall security framework by limiting exposure of critical operational details during defence actions.