New Delhi,
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has issued a comprehensive advisory to all media channels, news agencies, and social media platforms, directing them to immediately refrain from live coverage of defence operations and movement of security forces. The directive, issued in the interest of national security, highlights the vital importance of responsible reporting during sensitive defence activities.
In the advisory dated 26th April 2025, the Ministry emphasized that utmost responsibility and strict adherence to existing laws and regulations is essential when reporting on matters concerning national security and defence operations. Media platforms and social media users have been categorically advised against real-time coverage, dissemination of visuals, or sharing information based on unofficial sources regarding defence operations.
The Ministry warned that premature disclosure of sensitive information can inadvertently assist hostile elements, potentially jeopardizing operational effectiveness and endangering the lives of security personnel involved in these critical missions.
Drawing attention to past instances, the advisory cited major national security events like the Kargil conflict, the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, and the Kandahar hijacking, where unrestricted media coverage had unintended adverse consequences on India’s national interests. These experiences, the Ministry noted, underline the necessity of responsible and restricted reporting during ongoing security operations.
Highlighting both the legal and moral responsibilities of media and individuals, the Ministry stressed that safeguarding ongoing operations is a collective duty. It is not only a matter of law but also of patriotism and ethical journalism, ensuring that national security is never compromised for sensational coverage.
The advisory reiterated previous instructions issued under the Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules, 2021. Specifically, it referred to Rule 6(1)(p), which prohibits any programme that contains live coverage of anti-terrorist operations by security forces. Instead, information must be restricted to periodic briefings given by a designated officer of the Government until the conclusion of operations.
The Ministry made it clear that any violation of these rules would be considered a breach of the law and would attract action under the Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules, 2021. Consequently, all television channels and digital platforms have been advised to strictly avoid live telecasts of security force movements and anti-terrorist operations in the larger interest of national security.
Additionally, the advisory called upon all stakeholders — media houses, digital content creators, and social media users — to exercise continued vigilance, sensitivity, and responsibility. They were urged to uphold the highest journalistic standards while serving the nation’s interest.
The advisory, issued by Deputy Director Kshitij Aggarwal, has also been formally communicated to:
• Self-Regulatory Bodies of TV Channels registered under the Cable Television (Amendment) Rules, 2021,
• Associations and bodies of electronic media, and
• Through the Broadcast Seva Portal for wider dissemination.
The Ministry concluded by reiterating that protecting national security is a shared responsibility, requiring the cooperation and commitment of all sections of the media and public alike.
