Why Did the Defence Ministry Advise Against Live Coverage of Operations?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In an urgent advisory, the Ministry of Defence has called on media outlets to stop live coverage of defence operations, stressing that such actions can endanger lives and operational effectiveness. The Ministry references past incidents to highlight the risks associated with premature reporting, urging a collective effort to uphold national security.
Key Takeaways
- The Ministry of Defence advises against live coverage of operations.
- Premature reporting can jeopardize lives and operations.
- Media should adhere to guidelines set in the Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules, 2021.
- Historical events illustrate the risks associated with irresponsible reporting.
- All stakeholders must maintain vigilance and responsibility in their reporting.
New Delhi, May 9 (NationPress) - The Ministry of Defence has issued a significant advisory to the media, urging them to avoid live coverage of defence operations and the movement of security personnel.
In a statement shared on its social media platform X, the Ministry emphasized, "All media outlets, online platforms, and individuals are strongly advised to refrain from live reporting or real-time broadcasting of defence operations and security forces' movements."
The MoD highlighted that revealing such sensitive information could compromise operational effectiveness and put lives at risk.
Referencing past events such as the Kargil War, the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, and the Kandahar hijacking, the Ministry illustrated the dangers associated with premature reporting.
According to clause 6(1)(p) of the Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules, 2021, only designated officials are allowed to provide periodic briefings during anti-terror operations.
The Ministry urged all parties involved to maintain vigilance, sensitivity, and a sense of responsibility in their reporting, ensuring the highest standards in the service of the nation.
An advisory from the Union Ministry of Information and Broadcasting dated April 6 also reinforced these points, advising all media outlets against live coverage of defence activities.
Key points highlighted included the need for utmost responsibility from all media platforms and users when covering defence and security-related events.
It was specified that no real-time reporting, dissemination of visuals, or source-based coverage of defence operations should occur.
The advisory warned that premature sharing of sensitive information could inadvertently aid hostile entities and jeopardize both operational effectiveness and personnel safety. Past incidents have demonstrated the critical importance of responsible journalism.
Moreover, the Ministry pointed out that the media, digital platforms, and individuals have a crucial role in protecting national security.
"Beyond legal obligations, it is a shared moral duty to ensure that our collective actions do not compromise ongoing operations or the safety of our forces," the advisory stated.
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting had previously issued guidelines mandating adherence to Rule 6(1)(p) of the Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules, 2021. This rule prohibits any live coverage of anti-terrorist operations, allowing only periodic briefings by designated officials until the conclusion of such operations.
In its advisory on April 26, the Ministry asserted, "Television broadcasts violating these rules are subject to legal action. Therefore, all channels must refrain from live coverage of anti-terrorist operations for national security reasons, with coverage limited to periodic updates from designated officials until operations conclude."
All stakeholders are encouraged to continue exercising vigilance, sensitivity, and responsibility in their reporting, upholding the highest standards in service to the nation.
Point of View
It is imperative to emphasize that national security must always come first. The Ministry's advisory serves as a reminder of the responsibilities that come with freedom of the press. Upholding the integrity of our operations is essential, and we must balance the public's right to know with the safety of our nation and its forces.
NationPress
14/05/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the Defence Ministry's advisory?
The advisory was issued to prevent live coverage of defence operations, as such broadcasts can jeopardize operational effectiveness and endanger lives.
What historical events were referenced in the advisory?
The advisory cited incidents like the Kargil War, the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, and the Kandahar hijacking to illustrate the risks of premature reporting.
Are there legal consequences for violating the advisory?
Yes, media outlets that conduct live coverage of anti-terrorist operations may face legal repercussions as outlined in the Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules, 2021.
What should media outlets focus on during operations?
Media outlets are advised to limit their coverage to periodic briefings from designated officials until operations conclude.
How can media contribute to national security?
By exercising caution and responsibility in reporting, media can play a crucial role in safeguarding national security and supporting the safety of personnel involved in operations.
