Government Issues Strict Advisory: No Live Coverage of Defence Operations Allowed, Media Urged to Prioritise National Security
New Delhi, 26th April 2025: The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has issued a nationwide advisory prohibiting all media channels, digital platforms, and social media users from broadcasting live coverage of defence operations and security force movements. The directive, dated 26th April, comes in the wake of the recent Pahalgam terror attack and underscores the critical need to protect sensitive operational details for national security.
The advisory explicitly bans real-time reporting, dissemination of visuals, and source-based updates on ongoing military actions, warning that premature disclosure could aid hostile elements and endanger both operational effectiveness and the safety of security personnel. The government cited past incidents-including the Kargil War, the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, and the Kandahar hijacking-where unrestricted media coverage had negative consequences for national interests.
Media organisations are instructed to strictly follow Rule 6(1)(p) of the Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules, 2021, which prohibits live telecasts of anti-terrorist operations and restricts coverage to periodic briefings by designated government officers until operations conclude. Violations will attract strict action under the amended rules.
The Ministry emphasised that, beyond legal obligations, all stakeholders- including news agencies, broadcasters, and individuals- share a moral responsibility to ensure their coverage does not compromise ongoing operations or the security of Indian forces. The advisory calls for continued vigilance, sensitivity, and adherence to the highest standards of responsible journalism in the service of the nation.
