The Information and Broadcasting (I&B) ministry has asked TV channels to refrain from showing live coverage of defence operations and movement of security forces. This comes in the wake of reporting on defence matters following the Pahalgam terror attack.
It has asked all media platforms, news agencies and social media users” to exercise utmost responsibility and adhere strictly to existing laws and regulations while reporting on matters concerning defence and other security related operations”, in the interest of national security.
“No real-time coverage, dissemination of visuals, or reporting based on “sources-based” information related to 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 Ministry stated in its advisory released on Saturday.
It said that during events such as the Kargil war, the Mumbai terror attacks (26/11), and the Kandahar hijacking, “unrestricted coverage had unintended adverse consequences on national interests.” These past incidents have underscore the importance of responsible reporting, it added.
It said all TV channels must adhere to Rule 6(1)(p) of Cable Television Networks(Amendment) Rules, 2021). The provision 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.”
It added that such telecast is in violation of Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules,2021 and is liable for action. “Therefore, all TV channels are advised not to telecast live coverage of anti-terrorist operation and movement by the security forces in interest of national security such operation concludes,” the advisory stated.
“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 advisory added.
The Ministry added that “all stakeholders are requested to continue exercising vigilance, sensitivity, and responsibility in coverage, upholding the highest standards in the service of the nation.”
Published on April 26, 2025