MIB advisory to TV channels on usage of disaster footage coverage

The Ministry of Information & Broadcasting (MIB) has issued an advisory to all private satellite TV channels regarding telecast of footage related to disaster/ natural calamity/ major accidents.

In its advisory, MIB noted, “It has been noticed that whenever a disaster/ natural calamity/ major accident occurs, TV channels provide continuous coverage over several days, but repeatedly show footage from the day that the incident happened or some previous footage, not necessary reflecting the real-time ground situation, which leads to unnecessary confusion and potential panic among viewers.”

Therefore, to avoid any misunderstanding among viewers, all private satellite TV channels have been advised to ensure that visuals of disasters/ natural calamity/ major accidents should prominently display a ‘Data and Time’ stamp on the top of the footage.

MiB stated, “This will ensure viewers are suitably informed about the exact date of the footage being telecast and the fact that it does not necessarily reflect the real time position at the location of the incident.”

Further, all private satellite TV channel have been directed to ensure adherence to Programme Code while telecasting such incidents.