‘Avoid Airing Anti-National Content’: MIB Warns TV Channels on Violent Visuals, AI Misuse

The Information and Broadcasting Ministry has directed satellite TV channels to avoid live anti-terror coverage, handle violent visuals responsibly, exercise caution with AI and comply with broadcast regulations.

Post Published By: Pradeep Tripathi

Updated : 21 October 2026, 7:28 PM IST

Government warns TV channels against irresponsible news broadcasting (Img: X)

 New Delhi: The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting on Wednesday issued an advisory to private satellite television channels, asking them to avoid live coverage of anti-terror operations, exercise caution while airing violent visuals and refrain from broadcasting anti-national content.

The ministry directed broadcasters to strictly follow the Programme Code under the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995, and the Cable Television Networks Rules, 1994. It said instances of non-compliance had been observed across several private satellite channels.

Ministry flags violations of Programme Code

"The ministry of information & broadcasting has observed instances of non-compliance with the provisions of the Programme Code prescribed under the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995, and the Cable Television Networks Rules, 1994, by various private satellite television channels," the ministry said.

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"Instances of similar news/visuals broadcast on multiple channels on similar topics were observed during the meeting of IDC. Therefore, IDC recommended that all private satellite television channels be advised to strictly adhere to the statutory provisions governing content broadcast on television. The committee also emphasised that inappropriate behaviour or language should not be normalized in telecast," it added.

Advisory covers terror operations, crime and communal harmony

The guidelines cover several areas of television reporting, including live coverage of anti-terror operations, violent visuals, crime reporting and natural disasters. They also address the use of authentic maps of India, communal harmony and the protection of sexual assault victims' identities.

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On communal harmony and debate programmes, the ministry said channels must ensure that programmes, including live debates and panel discussions, "do not promote or encourage communal or anti-national attitudes".

Caution urged over use of artificial intelligence

The ministry also cautioned broadcasters to exercise due care while using artificial intelligence, including generative AI, in television programmes, particularly graphics and virtual news presentations.

It said AI tools "may be limited to assistive capacity" without compromising the "accuracy, authenticity, or sensitivity" of news content.

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Broadcasters told to strengthen editorial checks

The ministry asked channels to strengthen their editorial oversight and content-review systems. It also called for regular training and sensitisation of personnel involved in news gathering, editing, production, transmission and telecast.

Violations of the guidelines may invite action under the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995, the ministry said.