Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) has issued a fresh advisory urging all media platforms, news agencies, and social media users to refrain from live coverage of defence operations or the movement of security forces. The advisory highlights the critical need for responsible reporting, especially during sensitive military actions, and warns that premature disclosure of information can put operational success and personnel safety at risk.

According to an official press release issued by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the government stressed that real-time visuals, source-based reporting, or any premature dissemination of information regarding defence operations must be strictly avoided. The advisory pointed to past incidents—such as the Kargil conflict, the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, and the Kandahar hijacking—as stark reminders of how unrestricted media coverage can inadvertently aid hostile forces and severely impact national interests.

The Ministry has reiterated that responsible journalism is not only a legal duty but a moral obligation. Media houses, digital platforms, and individual users have been reminded of their crucial role in maintaining national security. The government emphasized that while freedom of the press is a cornerstone of democracy, it must be balanced with the responsibility of protecting sensitive information during live operations.

Further reinforcing the directive, the Ministry recalled the existing Rule 6(1)(p) of the Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules, 2021. The rule clearly mandates that no television channel should carry live coverage of anti-terrorist operations by security forces. Instead, media coverage must be restricted solely to official briefings by a designated officer until the operation concludes. Violations of these guidelines will invite strict action under the provisions of the Cable Television Networks Rules.

The advisory noted that any live telecast of defence operations or troop movements constitutes a serious breach of the law and is liable for punitive action. It underlined that safeguarding sensitive information during operations is essential not just for the security of the nation but also for the protection of the lives of military personnel on the ground.

The Ministry concluded by appealing to all stakeholders in the media and digital spaces to continue exercising vigilance, sensitivity, and the highest standards of responsibility in their reporting. The release noted that this advisory has been issued with the approval of the competent authority in the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.