Ministry of Information and Broadcasting Issues Media Advisory Against Live Coverage of Defence Operations
In a significant move aimed at safeguarding national security, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) has issued a stern advisory dated April 26, 2025, to all media channels across India. The advisory instructs media platforms, news agencies, and social media users to refrain from live coverage of defence operations and the movement of security forces.
The advisory, issued under No. 41015/3/2024-BC-III, highlights the importance of responsible reporting, especially during sensitive military activities. The MIB emphasized that real-time reporting, visuals, or information based on “sources” regarding defence operations must be strictly avoided. Premature disclosure of sensitive operational details could inadvertently assist hostile elements, endanger the safety of personnel, and compromise the effectiveness of missions.
Citing past incidents like the Kargil war, the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, and the Kandahar hijacking, the advisory underscores the adverse consequences that unrestricted media coverage can cause. The government reiterated that media, digital platforms, and individuals share a moral and legal responsibility to protect national security interests.
The Ministry also referred to Rule 6(1)(p) of the Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules, 2021. The rule mandates 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.”
Any violation of this rule could invite legal action. Consequently, all TV channels are reminded not to telecast live coverage of anti-terrorist operations and the movement of security forces. Instead, information should only be disseminated through official briefings by authorized government officers once operations are concluded.
The advisory, signed by Deputy Director Kshitij Aggarwal, has also been circulated to self-regulatory bodies of TV channels, associations of electronic media, and the Broadcast Seva Portal.
All stakeholders are urged to exercise continued vigilance, sensitivity, and responsibility in their coverage, upholding the highest standards in service of the nation.
