New Delhi, April 26 – In a significant move aimed at safeguarding national security, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has issued a fresh advisory directing all media channels to refrain from live coverage of defence operations and movement of security forces.
The advisory, dated April 26, 2025, and addressed to all media channels and digital platforms, underlines the importance of responsible reporting, especially during times of national security operations. The ministry has stressed that media outlets, news agencies, and social media users must strictly adhere to existing laws and avoid disseminating any real-time visuals or “sources-based” information related to ongoing defence activities.
Citing previous incidents such as the Kargil War, the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, and the Kandahar hijacking, the ministry stated that unregulated and premature media coverage during these events had “unintended adverse consequences” on national interests.
All media channels, digital platforms and individuals are advised to refrain from live coverage or real-time reporting of defence operations and movement of security forces. Disclosure of such sensitive or source-based information may jeopardize operational effectiveness and…
— Ministry of Defence, Government of India (@SpokespersonMoD) May 9, 2025
The advisory reiterates the mandate under Rule 6(1)(p) of the Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules, 2021, which clearly prohibits live coverage of anti-terrorist operations by security forces. It specifies that any such media coverage must be restricted to periodic briefings by an officer designated by the government until the conclusion of the operation.
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“This is not just a legal obligation but also a shared moral responsibility,” the advisory notes, urging all stakeholders, including digital platforms and individuals, to ensure that national security is not compromised by their content.
The ministry warned that any violation of the advisory would be considered a breach of the Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules, 2021, and would attract strict action.
Media organizations are reminded to continue upholding the highest standards of vigilance, sensitivity, and responsibility while reporting, especially on matters concerning national defence.
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The advisory concludes with a note that it has been issued with the approval of competent authority in the ministry.
