In the wake of the recent terror attack in Pahalgam that claimed 26 lives, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) on Sunday issued a strong advisory to all media platforms, urging them to refrain from live coverage of defence operations and movements of security forces.
Ministry of Information and Broadcasting issues advisory to all Media channels to refrain from showing live coverage of defence operations and movement of security forces in the interest of national security. pic.twitter.com/MQjPvlexdr
— Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (@MIB_India) April 26, 2025
Citing concerns over national security, the Ministry emphasized that real-time reporting, broadcasting visuals, or sharing source-based information related to military activities must be strictly avoided. “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,” the advisory read.
The government pointed to lessons learned from past incidents such as the Kargil conflict, the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, and the Kandahar hijacking, where uncontrolled media coverage had “unintended adverse consequences” on national interests.
Highlighting both the legal and moral responsibilities of the media and digital platforms, the Ministry stated, “Media, digital platforms, and individuals play a vital role in safeguarding national security.”
The advisory also reminded television channels about their obligations under Rule 6(1)(p) of the Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules, 2021. According to this rule, live coverage of anti-terrorist operations is prohibited, and reporting must be restricted to official briefings provided by designated government officers until the operations conclude. Any violation, it stressed, would invite strict action under existing regulations.
