Editors Guild asks news channels to abide by ethics of journalism

New Delhi, Jan 8 (ANI): The Editors Guild of India on Friday has urged the news organizations to follow ethics of journalism and uphold its principles while reporting about events.

On Friday, the Editors' Guild noted with concern the manner in which some news channels broadcasted reports based on completely unsubstantiated allegations concerning the circumstances which led to the tragic death of Y. S. Rajshekhar Reddy.

"Such reporting is sensational in nature and goes against the basic ethics, standards and principles of journalism," the Editors' Guild commented in a statement.

Describing the incident as unfortunate that the reporting triggered some violence in certain parts of Andhra Pradesh.

"The Editors Guild condemns such reporting and requests the channels to desist from broadcasting news in an irresponsible manner," the statement said while adding: "It may be pertinent to reiterate news organizations should exercise all possible rigour and cross-checking of facts, source and motivation of the information before disseminating it in public."

On Thursday night, TV-5 channel telecasted a story based on a report on a Russian website, which alleged that RIL was partner in the conspiracy behind YSR's chopper crash.

The report triggered passions among the deceased Chief Minister's supporters in Andhra Pradesh and led to a series of attacks on Reliance shops throughout the State.

Meanwhile, in a statement, the RIL called the report as "false" and "malicious."

"We are shocked and outraged at the false, malicious, motivated and libelous news on TV-5 channel concerning the fatal mishap of Reddy's helicopter. We condemn, rebut and reject the allegation with the contempt it deserves," an RIL statement said. (ANI)