Electronic Media, Social Media Asked To Refrain From Reporting Security Ops
“All TV channels are advised not to telecast live coverage of anti-terrorist operations and the movement of security forces,” the statement adds.
NEW DELHI: The Centre on Saturday issued a security advisory urging all media platforms and social-media users to avoid live coverage of defence operations and the movement of security forces, warning that real-time reporting could aid hostile elements.
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting’s advisory states: “In the interest of national security, all media platforms, news agencies and social-media users are advised to exercise utmost responsibility and adhere strictly to existing laws and regulations while reporting on matters concerning defence and other security-related operations.”
Specifically, it warns, “No real-time coverage, dissemination of visuals, or reporting based on unofficial ‘sources’ related to defence operations or troop movements should be undertaken. Premature disclosure of sensitive information may inadvertently assist hostile elements and endanger operational effectiveness and the safety of personnel.”
Citing past examples—such as the Kargil conflict, the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks and the Kandahar hijacking—the advisory notes that unrestricted coverage has previously “had unintended adverse consequences on national interests.”
“All TV channels are advised not to telecast live coverage of anti-terrorist operations and the movement of security forces,” the statement adds. Instead, it suggests that media outlets rely on “periodic briefings by an officer designated by the appropriate government until such operations conclude.”
