The government of India has issued an advisory to all media channels to refrain from showing live coverage of defence operations and movement of security forces while reporting on matters concerning defence and other security related issues.

Issuing a statement, the ministry of information and broadcasting said, “In the interest of national security all media platforms, news agencies, and social media users are advised to exercise utmost responsibility and adhere strictly to existing laws and regulations while reporting on matters concerning defence and other security related operations.

“No real-time coverage, dissemination of visuals, or reporting based on “sources-based” information related to defence operations or movement should be undertaken. Premature disclosure of sensitive information may inadvertently assist hostile elements and endanger operational effectiveness and the safety of personnel” it said.

The advisory, citing past events of Kargil war and Mumbai terror attacks (26/11) and Kandahar hijacking, has said that unrestrained coverage had unintended adverse consequences on national interests and has called for responsible media reporting.       

On April 26, 2025, the MIB had issued advisories to all TV channels to adhere to Rule 6(1)(p) of Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules, 2021).

As per Rule 6(1)(p), no programme should be carried in the cable service which contains live coverage of any anti-terrorist operation by security forces, wherein media coverage shall be restricted to periodic briefing by an officer designated by the appropriate Government, till such operation concludes.

“Such telecast is in violation of Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules, 2021 and is liable for action thereunder. Therefore, all TV channels are advised not to telecast live coverage of anti-terrorist operation and movement by the security forces in interest of national security. Apart from the legal obligations, it is a shared moral responsibility to ensure that our collective actions do not compromise ongoing operations or the security of our forces.”

All stakeholders are requested to continue exercising vigilance, sensitivity, and responsibility in coverage, upholding the highest standards in the service of the nation, said the government advisory.