In the wake of the deadly Pahalgam terrorist attack, which claimed 26 lives, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) on Sunday issued a strict advisory to all media platforms, news agencies, and social media users to refrain from live coverage of defence operations and movement of security forces.
The advisory, issued in the interest of national security, stated,
“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.”
Highlighting past experiences such as the Kargil War, the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, and the Kandahar hijacking, the Ministry warned that unrestricted coverage in the past had serious unintended consequences impacting national security.
The MIB emphasized the shared moral responsibility of all stakeholders, apart from their legal obligations, to safeguard the nation’s interests, noting that
“Media, digital platforms, and individuals play a vital role in upholding national security.”
The advisory recalled Rule 6(1)(p) of the Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules, 2021, which already prohibits live coverage of anti-terrorist operations by security forces.
Under this rule, media coverage is to be restricted only to periodic briefings by an officer designated by the appropriate government until the conclusion of an operation. Any violation could invite action under existing laws.
The move comes amid the Centre’s tough measures in response to the Pahalgam attack, including:
- Holding the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance
- Suspending the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme for Pakistani nationals
- Closing the Attari Integrated Check Post to Pakistani citizens
- Reducing diplomatic staff in both New Delhi and Islamabad
The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, was briefed extensively on April 23 about the Pahalgam attack.
The CCS condemned the terror strike in the strongest terms and recognized the attack as an attempt to destabilize the Union Territory’s growing peace, electoral participation, and economic development.
Opposition parties have expressed full support for the government’s tough measures, reflecting a rare moment of national unity against cross-border terrorism.
The government has vowed that the perpetrators and conspirators behind the Pahalgam attack will face severe and decisive action.
The atmosphere across the country remains tense but determined, with widespread protests demanding even stronger retaliation against terrorism.