Don't want a repeat of 26/11; Govt asks TV channels not to broadcast anti-terror ops

Taking a step forward on news coverage of terror-related operations by TV channels, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has asked all TV news channels not to broadcast anti-terrorist operations live.

The I&B ministry has issued an advisory to all television channels not to broadcast live anti-terrorist operations to avoid any adverse impact on rescue exercise.

This comes after ministry expressed its displeasure on some TV channels for covering live anti-terrorist operations in Jammu and Kashmir's Kathua district on March 20.

Three security personnel and a civilian were killed in the attack.

Ministry said that in the interest of national security, live coverage of counter terrorism operations by security forces should not be telecast.

The issue of banning live telecast of anti-terror ops cropped up after the Mumbai terror attacks. Television channels had aired live images, including the moves by security forces, para-dropping of commandos, which led the authorities to intervene.

While hearing the case, the Supreme court had pulled the media for its role and asked for some regulations within itself.

From the transcripts, especially those from Taj Hotel and Nariman House, it was evident that the terrorists who were entrenched at those places and more than them, their collaborators across the border were watching the full show on TV.

There are many references to the media reports and the visuals being shown on the TV screen in those transcripts.

Ministry had indicated then that there could soon be norms for media coverage of terror-related operations by saying that the issue is under serious and very advanced consideration.