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Amid rising tensions between India and Pakistan, the Ministry of Defence reissued a media advisory on Friday, May 9, prohibiting all media channels, digital platforms, and individuals from providing live coverage or real-time reporting of defence operations and the movement of security forces.
The advisory urged all media platforms, news agencies, and social media users to act responsibly and strictly follow existing laws and regulations while reporting on matters concerning defence and other security-related operations.
It specifically stated that no real-time coverage, dissemination of visuals, or reporting based on “source-based” information related to defence operations should be undertaken. “Premature disclosure of sensitive information may inadvertently assist hostile elements and endanger operational effectiveness and the safety of personnel,” the advisory read.
“The media coverage may be restricted to periodic briefings by an officer designated by the appropriate Government until such operations conclude,” it stated.
Stressing the vital role of the media, digital platforms, and individuals in safeguarding national security, the document said, “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.”
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has previously issued advisories to all TV channels, directing them to comply with Rule 6(1)(p) of the Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules, 2021, which 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 briefings by an officer designated by the appropriate Government until such operation concludes.”
Defying this rule and broadcasting sensitive content would be considered a violation of the Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules, 2021, and is liable for action, the MoD said.
All stakeholders have been requested to continue exercising vigilance, sensitivity, and responsibility in their coverage, upholding the highest standards in the service of the nation, the notification concluded.