No real-time or source-based coverage of defence ops: Govt tells media; cites lapses during Kargil war, 26/11 attacks
The union ministry cautioned that “no real-time coverage, dissemination of visuals, or reporting based on ‘sources-based’ information related to defence operations or movement should be undertaken.”
It stressed that early disclosure of sensitive information could “endanger operational effectiveness and the safety of personnel.”
The government’s directive comes against the backdrop of tensions with Pakistan, days after terrorists linked to the Lashkar-e-Taiba group the Resistance Front, claimed responsiblity for the massacre 26 tourists in Kashmir’s Pahalgam.
Rules for media on covering defence and security operations
The ministry reminded media platforms that existing laws already regulate reportage during anti-terror operations. Referring to the Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules, 2021, it specifically highlighted Rule 6(1)(p), which states that “no programme should be carried in the cable service which contains live coverage of any anti-terrorist operation by security forces,” and that media coverage must be “restricted to periodic briefing by an officer designated by the appropriate Government, till such operation concludes.”The advisory underlined that any violation of this provision could invite legal action.
“All TV channels are advised not to telecast live coverage of anti-terrorist operation and movement by the security forces in interest of national security,” the ministry said. Instead, information should be shared strictly based on official briefings by authorised personnel.
The ministry further emphasised that media, digital platforms, and individuals “play a vital role in safeguarding national security,” and called upon all stakeholders to maintain “vigilance, sensitivity, and responsibility in coverage, upholding the highest standards in the service of the nation.”
Past lapses during Kargil, 26/11 and Kandahar hijacking cited
To highlight the seriousness of the issue, the ministry cited examples where past media reporting allegedly compromised national security.
It pointed to the Kargil war, the Mumbai terror attacks of 26/11, and the hijacking of Indian Airlines flight IC-814 in Kandahar, stating that “unrestricted coverage had unintended adverse consequences on national interests” during these critical events.
While the ministry did not elaborate on specific incidents, it is widely acknowledged that real-time news broadcasts during these crises provided vital operational details to adversaries, hampering counterterror efforts and risking the lives of security personnel and civilians.
The ministry reiterated that the responsibility to protect sensitive information was not just a legal obligation but a “shared responsibility” between the government, media, and citizens to ensure the safety of the nation’s forces and the integrity of ongoing operations.
