Centre asks media to refrain from live coverage of defence ops, says past events had 'unintended consequences'

New Delhi: As security agencies intensified operations to capture terrorists involved in Pahalgam attack, the Government on Saturday asked media platforms not to provide live coverage or “source-based” reports on ongoing anti-terror operations “in the interest of national security”, saying premature disclosure “may inadvertently assist hostile elements”.

In an advisory to news channels, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting said past incidents have underscored the “importance of responsible reporting” and claimed “unrestricted coverage” during Kargil War, Mumbai attack and Kandahar hijacking had “unintended adverse consequences on national interests”.

“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,” the advisory said.

“Specifically: no real-time coverage, dissemination of visuals, or reporting based on ‘source-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 the personnel,” it said.

Army sources also raised concerns saying certain media houses have conducted discussions touching upon specific military aspects, including dispositions, unit formations’ names, tactics, military options, and terrain analysis.

Advising the media to act with utmost responsibility and refrain from hosting, publishing, or participating in content that could compromise national security, they said broader discussions on national strategy and security perspectives to keep the public informed are understandable but insisted that they must not come at the cost of violating operational sensitivities.

The government advisory highlighted that media, digital platforms and individuals play a vital role in safeguarding national security and that it is a “shared moral responsibility” to ensure that collective actions do not compromise the security of the forces and ongoing operations.

Citing Rule 6(1)(p) of Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules, 2021, the Ministry has warned against live telecast of anti-terrorist operations and that any violation is liable for action. “All TV channels are advised not to telecast live coverage of anti-terrorist operation and movement by the security forces in the interest of national security,” the advisory said.

“Media coverage may be restricted to periodic briefing by an officer designated by the appropriate government till such operation concludes,” it added.