Centre warns media against TRP-driven coverage that endangers troops

India’s Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (I&B) has issued a stern warning to all media outlets, urging them to refrain from live telecasts of defence operations, citing past instances where such coverage compromised national interests. In the pursuit of higher Television Rating Points (TRPs), several television channels had, in earlier incidents, irresponsibly broadcast footage of forces in action, endangering lives.

“In the interest of national security, all media platforms, news agencies, and social media users are advised to exercise the utmost responsibility and adhere strictly to existing laws and regulations when reporting on matters concerning defence and security operations,” the advisory, issued on Saturday, stated.

The ministry emphasised that no real-time coverage, dissemination of visuals, or reporting based on “sources-based” information related to defence operations or troop movements should take place. “Premature disclosure of sensitive information may inadvertently assist hostile elements and endanger operational effectiveness and personnel safety,” it added.

The advisory highlighted that past events — such as the Kargil conflict, the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, and the Kandahar hijacking — had demonstrated the consequences of unrestricted media coverage on national security.

Acknowledging the vital role of media, digital platforms, and individuals in safeguarding national interests, the ministry said: “Beyond legal obligations, there is a shared moral responsibility to ensure that our collective actions do not compromise ongoing operations or the safety of our forces.”

The ministry reminded broadcasters of Rule 6(1)(p) of the Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules, 2021, which states that “no programme should be carried in the cable service which contains live coverage of any anti-terrorist operation by security forces, wherein media coverage shall be restricted to periodic briefings by an officer designated by the appropriate government until such operation concludes.”

The advisory reiterated that any violation of this rule could invite action under the Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules, 2021. All television channels were advised to avoid live coverage of anti-terror operations and troop movements, restricting reporting to authorised briefings until operations are completed.

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