256 notices to 100 channels for Ad code violation: Minister

New Delhi, Oct 21 (UNI) Overall 256 showcause notices have been issued against 100 TV channels for violation of Programme and Advertising Codes, the Lok Sabha was informed today.

Of these, 64 channels, including AXN, have been issued warnings or advisories, Minister of State for External Affairs Anand Sharma, who has been given the additional charge of Information and Broadcasting, said in a written reply.

Several instances of misleading advertisements have been brought to the notice of the Government, including 'Roop Amrit' (2205), 'Hiko Good height increasing device', 'Herbal Slim Tea', Oka height increasing device', 'Garnier light fairness cream' (2007), 'Panch Mukhi Rudraksh mala' (2207), '7 Up' and others, he said.

All advertisements of satellite TV channels, transmitted or retransmitted through cable service, are required to adhere to the provisions of the Advertising Code, prescribed under the Cable TV Networks (Regulation) Act, Mr Sharma added.

He said the Centre has constituted an inter-ministerial committee to examine cases of violation of the Code, suo motu or on receipt of complaint. In case of violation, action is taken against the channels. Under these rules, action cannot be taken against the erring companies, the Minister added.

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