MIB Tells TV Channels: No Live Anti-Terror Coverage, AI Only as Aid
Image: Indian Television
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has issued an advisory to all private satellite TV channels asking them to follow the Programme Code strictly, the document, signed digitally by Deputy Secretary Arpitha S on 21 October 2026, shows. It says the ministry has seen instances of non-compliance and warns that violations may invite action under the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995. The advisory also asks channels to keep artificial intelligence (AI) to an assistive role in news.
Why the Ministry Issued It
The advisory says an Inter-Departmental Committee, set up under the Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules, 2021, found that telecasts on several channels were not in keeping with the spirit of the Programme Code. The committee noted similar news and visuals running on multiple channels on the same topics. It also said inappropriate behaviour or language should not be normalised on air. The ministry has not named any channel.
What Channels Have Been Told
On anti-terror operations, the advisory repeats that live coverage by security forces is prohibited under Rule 6(1)(p), and that coverage should be limited to periodic briefings by an authorised officer until the operation ends. Recorded visuals should carry time-stamps so viewers do not mistake them for live footage.
On crime and violence, channels are asked to base reports on verified facts, avoid sensational treatment and repeated looping of disturbing visuals, and blur or mask footage where needed. Reports on crimes against women and children need extra care. The advisory also reminds channels to use only maps of India published by the Survey of India, and not to reveal the identity of victims of sexual offences, directly or through family details, photographs or locality.
For live debates, channels should choose and brief panellists carefully and, where needed, mute, interrupt or end the feed to stop derogatory or inflammatory remarks. Disaster and accident footage should be time-stamped to avoid panic.
AI in Newsrooms and What Viewers Can Expect
Channels using AI tools, including generative AI for graphics or virtual presenters, should keep them to an assistive role without compromising the accuracy, authenticity or sensitivity of the news. The advisory does not add a new AI rule. It applies the existing Programme Code. Broadcasters are also encouraged to strengthen editorial review and hold regular training for news staff.
For viewers, the advisory is guidance, not a new law, and the ministry has not said how it will check compliance. Its practical effect will show in how channels handle the next major security operation or crime story. Related reading: more Daily Updates.
Based on the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting advisory No. 43011/1/2026-BC.III, 21 October 2026, and reporting by exchange4media, Indian Television and BestMediaInfo.
Image: Indian Television.
