Ministry of Information & Broadcasting has issued an advisory to OTT platforms, media streaming services, and intermediaries operating in India to immediately discontinue hosting or streaming any content of Pakistani origin, including web series, films, songs, and podcasts, regardless of whether the content is offered free or via subscription.

Text Box No. 41015/3/2024-BC-III
GOVERNMENT OF INDIA
MINISTRY OF INFORMATION AND BROADCASTING
`A’ WING, SHASTRI BHAWAN,
NEW DELHI – 110001

Dated : 26th April, 2025

ADVISORY

To,

All Media Channels

Subject: Advisory to all Media channels to refrain from showing live coverage of defence operations and movement of security forces reg.

1. 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.
   
2. Specifically: 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.
   
3. Past incidents have underscored the importance of responsible reporting. 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.
   
4. Media, digital platforms, and individuals play a vital role in safeguarding national security. 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.
   
5. Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has earlier already issued advisories to all TV channels to adhere to Rule 6(1)(p) of Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules, 2021). Rule 6(1)(p) states 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.”

• Such telecast is in violation of Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules, 2021 and is liable for action thereunder. 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. Media coverage may be restricted to periodic briefing by an officer designated by the appropriate Government till such operation concludes.
  
• All stakeholders are requested to continue exercising vigilance, sensitivity, and responsibility in coverage, upholding the highest standards in the service of the nation.
  
• This issues with the approval of competent authority in the Ministry.

(Kshitij Aggarwal) Deputy Director

Copy to:

1. Self -Regulatory Bodies of TV Channels Registered under the Cable Television (Amendment) Rules, 2021.
2. Association/ Bodies of Electronic Media.
3. Broadcast Seva Portal.