IB Notice: Central government gives major instructions to media after Pahalgam attack

Strict steps are being taken after the terrorist attack in Pahalgam. Not only this, India has also stopped water supply to Pakistan in response to the heinous act committed by the terrorists. On the other hand, in view of the tension between India and Pakistan after the Pahalgam terrorist attack, an advisory has been issued for media channels to refrain from showing live coverage of the movements of security forces. The ministry has given information about this by posting a tweet.

The ministry has said that these instructions to the media have been given considering national security. Along with this, 'In the interest of national security, do not broadcast live coverage of defence operations and activities of security forces. Considering the situation in the backdrop of the Pahalgam attack in Kashmir, media channels should exercise caution while doing live coverage in the national interest.' The ministry said in a statement issued on April 26, 2025. 8 instructions have been given in this advisory.

• In the interest of national security, all media platforms, news agencies and social media users are advised to act with utmost responsibility and strictly adhere to existing laws and regulations while reporting on matters related to defence and other security related operations.

• Real-time coverage, dissemination of views or reporting based on source-based information, particularly related to defense operations or movements, should not be undertaken. Premature disclosure of sensitive information could inadvertently aid adversaries and jeopardize operational effectiveness and personnel safety.

• Past events have highlighted the importance of responsible reporting. During events like the Kargil War, the Mumbai terrorist attacks (26/11) and the Kandahar hijackings, unrestricted coverage had unintended adverse effects on the national interest.

• Media, digital platforms and individuals play a vital role in safeguarding national security. In addition to legal obligations, it is a shared moral responsibility to ensure that our collective actions do not compromise the security of our operations or our forces.

• The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has already issued instructions to all TV channels to comply with Rule 6(1) (p) of the Cable Television Networks [Amendment) Rules, 2021. Rule 6(1) (p) states that a cable service shall not broadcast any programme which is a live broadcast of any anti-terrorist operation of the security forces, in which the media coverage shall be limited to periodical briefings by an officer appointed by the appropriate government, until such operation commences.

• Such broadcast is in violation of the Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules, 2001 and is liable to action thereunder. Therefore, all TV channels are advised not to broadcast in-depth coverage of counter-terrorism operations and movements of security forces in the interest of national security. Media coverage may be limited to regular briefings by an officer appointed by the appropriate government till the operation is completed.

• All stakeholders are requested to continue to exercise vigilance, sensitivity and responsibility in coverage, adhering to the highest standards of service to the country.

• This is subject to the approval of the competent authorities in the ministry.