In the wake of the recent terror attack on tourists in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam, the News Broadcasters & Digital Association (NBDA) has issued an advisory to its member editors, urging them to refrain from inviting panellists, speakers, and commentators from Pakistan on news programmes.
According to a confidential letter from NBDA – an association representing 27 leading private news channels – the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting has faulted news channels for inviting “anti-India” commentators from Pakistan in their programme(s) who propagate false propaganda against India.
“Editors of NBDA are advised to refrain from inviting panellists, speakers, and commentators from Pakistan in their programme(s), who are known for espousing views that undermine the sovereignty, integrity, and security of the nation and speak against our country,” the letter read.
It further urged the editors to exercise a high level of editorial discretion and judgement to ensure that channels and digital platforms are not misused for anti-India false propaganda.
The Pahalgam attack, which occurred on April 22, claimed 26 lives including tourists and a local resident. Among the victims was Lieutenant Vinay Narwal of the Indian Navy, who was at the tourist spot for his honeymoon. According to security officials, the terrorists reportedly singled out victims based on their religious identity before opening fire – a detail that has intensified outrage across the country.
Following the attack, many Indian news channels hosted debates and discussions involving Pakistani commentators.
Meanwhile, Himanshi, the widow of Vinay Narwal, is being subjected to online abuse and harassment by Hindutva supporters for appealing against targeting Kashmiris and Muslims over the attack.
Responding to the shameful incident, the National Commission for Women (NCW) issued a statement condemning the harassment faced by Himanshi. “After Lieutenant Vinay Narwal’s death, the way his wife, Himanshi Narwal, is being targeted on social media for a remark is extremely condemnable and unfortunate. Targeting a woman for her opinions or trolling her about her personal life is not acceptable at all,” the NCW said.