Eminent writers, public figures launch "Don't silence BBC Hindi radio" appeal

London, Feb.17 (ANI): Well known writers and public figures like Arundhati Roy, Sir Mark Tully, Ram Guha and Vikram Seth, have appealed to the British government to reconsider the funding cuts, which will end BBC Hindi broadcasts.

"For nearly seven decades BBC Hindi radio has been a credible source of unbiased and accurate information, especially in times of crisis" they said.

The British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) had announced cuts in its World Service program that will result in a loss of jobs for about 25 percent of its employees and almost 30 million listeners worldwide.

Wednesday's appeal was entitled "Don't silence BBC Hindi radio".

The BBC Hindi broadcast, which has 10 million listeners, particularly in rural areas, is scheduled to end on 31 March.

BBC says it had no choice as the government was reducing its funding. (ANI)