The Indian government said on Monday over 204 private TV channels ceased operations and warnings in 128 cases were issued for violation of guidelines during 2016-2020.

Responding to a query in Rajya Sabha (Upper House of Parliament), , Minister for Information and Broadcasting Anurag Thakur said presently there are 916 private satellite TV channels, which have been granted permission by the government under the Up-linking and Downlinking Guidelines, 2011, PTI reported from New Delhi.

Many channels failed to fulfill the guidelines and ceased to operate in the last five years, he said.

“TV channels cease operation due to various reasons, including for non-fulfillment of conditions under the guidelines. During the last five years, 204 TV channels have ceased to operate,” he said.

Thakur said the government also takes action against private TV channels for violation of programme code laid down under the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995 by issuance of warnings, advisories and off-air orders.

“During 2016-20, such action was taken in 128 cases,” he said.

The minister said 60 private satellite TV channels were given permission to operate in the country in 2016-17, 34 in 2017-18, 56 each in 2018-19 and 2019-20, and 22 in 2020-21.