New Delhi, April 26, 2025 — The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (I&B) has issued a directive to all media outlets, urging them to refrain from live coverage of defence operations and the movement of security forces. This advisory aims to safeguard national security and prevent the inadvertent dissemination of sensitive information that could compromise ongoing missions.
The advisory emphasizes that real-time reporting on defence activities can inadvertently aid hostile entities and jeopardize the safety of military personnel. It references past incidents, such as the Kargil War, the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, and the Kandahar hijacking, where unrestricted media coverage had unintended adverse consequences on national interests. Kalinga TV
The I&B Ministry highlighted that such live telecasts violate the Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules, 2021. Specifically, Rule 6(1)(p) states that no program should carry live coverage of any anti-terrorist operation by security forces. Media coverage should be restricted to periodic briefings by an officer designated by the appropriate government until the operation concludes. MEDIANAMA+3The New Indian Express+3Kalinga TV+3defenceforumindia.com+2Kalinga TV+2The New Indian Express+2
This advisory comes in the wake of extensive TV coverage of two counter-terrorism operations in Kathua and Doda by some news channels. In these incidents, a CRPF jawan was killed, and six security personnel were injured during overnight encounters with terrorists. The government expressed concern that live broadcasts during such operations could compromise the effectiveness of security measures and endanger lives. The New Indian Express+1Kalinga TV+1The Guardian
National Security Adviser Ajit Doval has also emphasized the importance of countering misinformation on social media to maintain the morale of defence forces. He noted that inaccurate posts about the Indian Army could lower the morale of defence personnel and stressed the need for robust counter-narratives to combat such misinformation. ABP Live+1MEDIANAMA+1
The Ministry of Defence has taken additional steps to monitor online content related to the Indian Army. The Additional Directorate General of Strategic Communication has been designated as the nodal officer for this purpose, with the authority to notify intermediaries about any information deemed ‘unlawful’ concerning the Indian Army. This move aims to prevent the spread of misinformation and protect national security interests. MEDIANAMA
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has previously highlighted the potential misuse of independent social media for propaganda purposes. He pointed out that social media, NGOs, judiciary, and democracy can be exploited by forces aiming to undermine a country’s security. Singh stressed the need for state agencies to work in an integrated manner to address these challenges. www.ndtv.com
The government has reiterated that media, digital platforms, and individuals play a vital role in safeguarding national security. Beyond legal obligations, there is a shared moral responsibility to ensure that collective actions do not compromise ongoing operations or the security of forces. All stakeholders are urged to exercise vigilance, sensitivity, and responsibility in their coverage, upholding the highest standards in the service of the nation. Kalinga TV
This advisory serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between the public’s right to information and the imperative to protect national security. The government continues to engage with media organizations to ensure responsible reporting that does not compromise the safety and effectiveness of defence operations.
