New Delhi: Following the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, which escalated geopolitical tensions between India and Pakistan, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) has released an advisory to all news outlets, media platforms, and social media users, asking them to abstain from live coverage of security force movements and defence operations.
The advisory, released on 26 April 2025, emphasises the critical need to exercise utmost responsibility in reporting sensitive security matters, adhering strictly to existing laws and regulations to safeguard national security. Highlighting concerns that the premature dissemination of information could inadvertently aid hostile elements and endanger ongoing defence operations and personnel, the Ministry of IB has called for strict compliance.
Specifically, the advisory instructs that no real-time coverage, dissemination of visuals, or reporting based on “sources-based” information regarding 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,” the notice stated.
Citing past incidents like the Kargil war, the Mumbai 26/11 terror attacks, and the Kandahar hijacking, the Ministry pointed out that unrestricted media coverage during such critical events had unintended adverse consequences on national interests. Stressing that media, digital platforms, and individuals play a crucial role in protecting national security, the advisory reminded stakeholders of both their legal obligations and their shared moral responsibility to ensure that coverage does not compromise the security of ongoing operations or forces.
The Ministry reiterated that earlier advisories and existing regulations already restrict such coverage under Rule 6(1)(p) of the Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules, 2021. According to the rule:
“No program should be carried in the cable service which contains the 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 advisory warned that any violation of these rules could attract action under the Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules, 2021. It clarified that live coverage of anti-terrorist operations or security force movements is prohibited in the interest of national security, and media coverage, if any, must be restricted to official briefings by authorised officers until the operations conclude.
Calling for vigilance, sensitivity, and responsibility, the Ministry urged all stakeholders to uphold the highest standards in the service of the nation during this sensitive period. The advisory was issued with the approval of the competent authority in the Ministry and signed by Kshitij Aggarwal, Deputy Director.
Copies of the advisory have also been sent to Self-Regulatory Bodies of TV Channels registered under the Cable Television (Amendment) Rules, 2021, various associations and bodies of electronic media, and the Broadcast Seva Portal.
The move comes as the government intensifies security measures across sensitive regions following the Pahalgam terror attack, which has raised fresh concerns about operational security and media conduct during crises.
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