Overview
- The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting issued a formal advisory on October 21, 2026 directing all private satellite TV channels to strictly comply with the Programme Code and warning that breaches may invite action under the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995.
- The advisory reiterates Rule 6(1)(p) by banning live coverage of anti‑terror operations and requires media to rely on periodic briefings by authorised officers with time‑stamped visuals to avoid misleading live impressions.
- Broadcasters were told to limit artificial intelligence, including generative AI, to an assistive role in graphics and virtual presentations so that accuracy, authenticity and sensitivity of news are never compromised.
- Channels must strengthen editorial controls for debates and panel shows by pre‑sensitising panellists, using remedial measures such as muting or disclaimers to stop abusive or inflammatory remarks, and protect victims’ identities in line with Supreme Court directions.
- The Inter‑Departmental Committee noted repeated similar telecasts across channels and the ministry asked broadcasters to boost training, use authentic Survey of India maps, share the advisory with self‑regulatory bodies and the Broadcast Sewa Portal, and prepare for possible enforcement measures.