TV code clauses impinge on media freedom,could be reviewed:Dasmunsi

New Delhi, June 6 (UNI) Admitting that certain provisions of the proposed television broadcast code impinged on the freedom of media, Information and Broadcasting Minister P R Dasmunsi has emphasised that the code was just a ''draft'' and the controversial regulations were subject to review.

''This is just a draft. I had a meeting with my officials and my knowledge is that such things are a direct interference on the freedom of the channels and freedom is the acknowledged truth of the established media in the whole world,'' Mr Dasmunsi said in a interview to a private TV channel.

''Therefore I am very clear, I am not going to put all this in the regulations,'' he added.

He said the forced categorisation of all TV programmes on channels, as per the code, would not apply to news channels.

Asked whether the implementation of the code which intended to categorise TV programmes, like movies into U and A categories would not amount to moral policing by the government, he clarified that ''News and Current affairs channels will not be covered by this regulation. I am telling you authoritatively.'' However, when pointed out that the draft code had specific restrictions for TV news channels on coverage of events like a hijack or a hostage crisis, the minister reiterated that the code was just a draft prepared by the administration.

''It then comes to the minister and the minister then has to apply his wisdom both on issues of constitutional merit as well as political merit and the established norms.'' Mr Dasmunsi also admitted that it was wrong to put restrictions such as a ban on news channels from 'criticising friendly countries'.

The Minister's remarks came two days after the I and B ministry asked news channels to stop repeated telecasts of images of the violence which swept through Rajasthan during the Gujjar stir.

When asked if the government should advise, monitor, control, or dictate to media, he said, ''My answer would be an emphatic no.

My only point is that if there is an appeal on the other side to restrain violence, should a responsible government not make an appeal to the media to give credence to those kinds of appeals too.'' UNI