Guwahati: The Union information & broadcasting ministry has asked all media outlets, precisely news channels, to refrain from ‘showing live coverage of defence operations’ and also movement of security personnel. An advisory (No. 41015/3/2024-BC-III) was issued on 26 April 2025 following the Pahalgam terror attack in Kashmir, where at least 26 tourists arriving from different parts of India were killed and many others injured on 22 April last. A tense situation is mounting across India as the Union government in New Delhi vowed to take appropriate actions against the terrorists and their supporters (including neighbouring Pakistan).
“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,” said the advisory, adding, “Specifically: No real-time coverage, dissemination of visuals, or reporting based on ‘sources-based’ information related to defence operations or movement should be undertaken. Premature disclosure of sensitive information may inadvertently assist hostile elements and endanger operational effectiveness and the safety of personnel.”
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It argued that the past incidents have underscored the importance of responsible reporting. During events like Kargil war, Mumbai terror attacks (26/11), Kandahar hijacking, etc an unrestricted coverage put unintended adverse consequences on national interests. “Media, digital platforms, and individuals play a vital role in safeguarding national security. Apart from the legal obligations, it is a shared moral responsibility to ensure that our collective actions do not compromise ongoing operations or the security of our forces,” added the ministry guidelines.
The concerned ministry had earlier issued advisories to all television channels to adhere to Rule 6(1)(p) of Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules, 2021), where the Rule 6(1)(p) states that “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.”
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The advisory stated that such telecast is in violation of the concerne cable television rules and liable for action thereunder. Hence, all television channels are advised not to telecast live coverage of anti-terrorist operation and movement by the security forces in the interest of national security. Media coverage may be restricted to periodic briefing by a designated officer until the operation is over. All stakeholders are requested to continue exercising vigilance, sensitivity, and responsibility in coverage, upholding the highest standards in the service of the nation, it concluded.