Govt warns media against live coverage of defence ops!

New Delhi: In a stern advisory issued on Thursday, the government has urged all media channels, digital platforms, and individuals to refrain from live coverage or real-time reporting of defence operations and troop movements, citing serious national security concerns.

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting stressed that premature disclosure of sensitive or source-based information could jeopardise operational effectiveness and endanger the lives of security personnel.

The advisory shared, draws lessons from past incidents such as the 1999 Kargil War, the 26/11 Mumbai attacks in 2008, and the Kandahar hijacking, all of which were exacerbated by the real-time broadcast of strategic developments.

Citing Clause 6(1)(p) of the Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules, 2021, the government reiterated that only official and periodic briefings by designated spokespersons are permitted during ongoing anti-terror or defence operations.

“The media must exercise vigilance, sensitivity, and responsibility in its coverage,” the advisory stated. “Reckless or unverified reporting not only compromises national security but also plays into the hands of hostile elements.”

The government’s warning comes amid heightened security concerns and ongoing military operations in certain regions. The advisory has called upon all stakeholders to uphold the highest standards of journalism, placing national interest above the race for breaking news.