One of our readers argues that private news channels should compulsorily carry Parliamentary news, sharing Doordarshan content if they are not allowed to get it on their own. She does make a point — after all, the events in the apex law making body are definitely something an informed citizen should know about. In fact, the idea can be extrapolated to cover state assemblies as well. If not anything else, our legislators will be less inclined to watch porn, or may be snoooze even while an important issue is being discussed.

However, despite all the best intentions, forcing content on news channels will be tantamount to control, not regulation. Not to mention, that it will make it easier for the government to screen information and telecast propaganda once it starts meddling with news content. It will be a breach of media freedom.

So, our poser for the day is should it be made compulsory for private news channels to broadcast Parliamentary news? Or, should the discretion on content be left to them?