NBDSA directs Zee News to remove all ‘Mehndi Jihad’ content for biased reporting. The authority warns broadcasters to maintain neutrality and present all perspectives in sensitive news coverage.
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NEW DELHI: The News Broadcasting & Digital Standards Authority (NBDSA) recently took action against Zee News over its coverage of the so-called “Mehndi Jihad” controversy in Uttar Pradesh. On September 25, NBDSA Chairperson Justice (Retired) AK Sikri issued an order directing the channel to remove all related content and uphold neutrality in future reporting.
Background
The controversy erupted following broadcasts in October 2024 where Zee News covered statements by certain Hindu groups urging Hindu women to use only Hindu mehndi (henna) artists during Karwa Chauth. The broadcasts suggested that Muslim artists were allegedly spitting in henna, hiding their identity to marry Hindu women, and forcibly converting them to Islam.
These reports were accompanied by inflammatory tickers and headlines, which, according to the complainant Indrajeet Ghorpade, spread misinformation and communal hatred.
NBDSA’s Verdict
After reviewing the broadcasts, NBDSA observed that Zee News had given ample airtime to the perspectives of Hindu groups while failing to present alternative viewpoints — including those of affected individuals or government representatives.
The authority stated:
“Failure to present the views of all affected parties constituted a violation of the principle of neutrality under the Code of Ethics & Broadcasting Standards and the Specific Guidelines Covering Reportage.”
Consequently, NBDSA admonished Zee News and instructed the channel to:
- Obtain and present views from all relevant parties in future reports.
- Remove the videos from its website, YouTube, and all hyperlinks within seven days and confirm compliance in writing.
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The Channel’s Defense
Zee News defended its coverage, arguing that the broadcasts were factual, neutral, and aimed at informing viewers about statements from certain groups. The channel claimed it did not endorse or amplify hateful content and that the tickers reflected third-party statements.
Read Zee News NBDSA Order:
