The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India, has issued a fresh advisory to all media channels, warning them to refrain from showing live coverage of defence operations and movement of security forces amid ongoing India Pakistan Tension after Pahalgam Attack
This advisory, dated 26th April 2025, has been issued in the interest of national security.
Key Points from the Advisory:
1. Exercise Utmost Responsibility:
All media platforms, news agencies, and social media users have been strongly advised to act responsibly and adhere strictly to existing laws and regulations while reporting on matters concerning defence and other security-related operations.
2. No Real-time Coverage:
The advisory specifically states that no real-time coverage, dissemination of visuals, or reporting based on "sources-based" information relating to defence operations or movement should be undertaken.
It warns that premature disclosure of sensitive information could inadvertently assist hostile elements and endanger operational effectiveness and the safety of personnel.
3. Reference to Past Incidents:
Highlighting lessons from the past, the advisory mentions that past incidents like the Kargil war, the Mumbai terror attacks (26/11), and the Kandahar hijacking showed that unrestricted media coverage had unintended adverse consequences on national interests.
4. Role of Media and Public:
The Ministry stressed that media, digital platforms, and individuals play a vital role in safeguarding national security.
Apart from legal obligations, there is also a shared moral responsibility to ensure that collective actions do not compromise ongoing operations or the security of forces.
5. Reference to Existing Rules:
The advisory recalls that the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting had already issued similar advisories in the past.
Specifically, it mentions Rule 6(1)(p) of the Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules, 2021, which clearly 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 briefing by an officer designated by the appropriate Government, till such operation concludes.”
This detailed advisory highlights the critical importance of responsible reporting during sensitive national security operations, warning that any irresponsible act could risk lives and national interests.
The Government has made it clear that it expects the media, digital platforms, and citizens to cooperate fully in ensuring operational confidentiality and security of the forces.
