Local channels telecasting inflammatory news in Kashmir: spokesman

Srinagar, Aug 24 (UNI) A spokesman of the Jammu and Kashmir government said here today that different channels on the local TV Cable Network were telecasting inflammatory news for quite some time.

He said the channels were issued notices not to telecast any such news or any other item which could vitiate the law and order situation and inflame passions with a view to fuel public disorder.

The managements of these channels, being operated under Cable Television Network (Regulation) Act, 1995 were also invited to meetings and advised not to use their channels in this manner.

However, the channels failed to comply with the directions and notices were issued from time to time in this regard.

The spokesman said the situation was carefully assessed by the Administration and it was felt that it had become absolutely imperative to take action under law against these channels in the larger public interest and for maintenance of public order. It is in this context that the District Magistrate, Srinagar, in exercise of powers under Section 11 (1) of the Cable Television Network (Regulation) Act, 1995 has issued orders to stop with immediate effect, the telecasting of all news and other items which are inflammatory in nature and thereby disturbing the peace and tranquility of general public.

However, they have been allowed to run the usual entertainment programmes as permitted by the Act.

The spokesman made it clear that the Government has not imposed any restriction on the transmission of any national or international channel whose transmission is allowed in the country.

UNI BAS PD AS1858