The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has issued a strong advisory to all private satellite television channels, instructing them to refrain from broadcasting live coverage of anti-terrorist operations conducted by security forces.

The advisory follows media reports that some channels had aired extensive real-time footage of counter-terror actions in Kathua and Doda districts of Jammu on June 11 and 12, 2025.

The Ministry has reiterated that such live telecasts are a violation of Rule 6(1)(p) of the Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules, 2021, which clearly prohibits the airing of any live operations conducted by the armed forces. The rule mandates that media coverage of such events should be limited to periodic briefings by an officer designated by the appropriate government authority until the operation is officially concluded.

The advisory emphasises that airing live visuals during such sensitive operations poses a grave risk to national security and may endanger the lives of security personnel as well as civilians in the vicinity. It notes that previous advisories and regulations have already been circulated to ensure responsible reporting in line with national interest.

The Ministry’s communication underlines that violations will attract strict action as per the provisions of the law. All television channels have therefore been urged to strictly comply with the guidelines and avoid any form of live telecast of anti-terror activities. The Ministry has reminded broadcasters that periodic, verified updates issued by official spokespersons are the only permitted form of reportage during such operations.

This latest advisory aims to reinforce the importance of journalistic responsibility in situations that involve the safety and operational confidentiality of security forces engaged in high-risk missions.