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Govt Enforces TV Content Rules: 3-Level Grievance System for Broadcasters

The Central Government has informed Parliament that private satellite TV channels must strictly follow the Programme and Advertising Codes under the Cable Television Networks Act. A three-level statutory grievance redressal mechanism has been established through the 2021 amendment rules. This system involves the broadcaster, industry self-regulatory bodies, and finally, oversight by the Central Government. The government can take action against violators through advisories, warnings, and off-air orders.

Key Points: Govt Details TV Channel Content Code Enforcement in Parliament

  • Private TV channels must follow Programme Code
  • Three-level statutory grievance mechanism established
  • Government can issue warnings and off-air orders
  • Rules prohibit content attacking religions or communities
2 min read

Private TV channels must follow programme code under the Cable TV Act; Govt details enforcement mechanism in Parliament

Central Government outlines statutory grievance mechanism for private TV channels under Cable TV Act, ensuring adherence to Programme and Advertising Codes.

"private satellite television channels are required to strictly adhere to the Advertising Code and Programme Code - Government Statement"

New Delhi, February 13

The Central Government on Friday informed Parliament that private satellite television channels are required to strictly adhere to the Advertising Code and Programme Code framed under the Cable Television Networks Act, 1995, which prohibits content attacking religions or communities, promoting communal attitudes, or maligning individuals and social groups.

The Government has also notified Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules, 2021 vide notification No. G.S.R. 416(E) dated 17.06.2021, thereby establishing a statutory mechanism for redressal of grievances/ complaints of violation of Programme and Advertising Codes.

The Rules provide for three-level complaint redressal mechanisms: Level I by the broadcaster, Level II by the broadcasters' self-regulatory bodies, and Level III by the Central Government's oversight mechanism. The Government takes action against Private TV channels by issuance of Advisories, Warnings, Apology Scroll Orders and Off-air Orders, etc.

The Ministry also issues Advisories from time to time to private satellite TV channels to ensure adherence to the Programme Code.

As per the Three Level Grievance Redressal Mechanism, at Level-I and Level -II any complaints regarding the content of the programme of a channel are directly received and disposed of by the Broadcaster and Self-Regulating Bodies of the Broadcasters.

As such, this Ministry does not exercise direct jurisdiction or oversight over these Level-III providers; oversight is provided by the Central Government.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Good move! Finally some accountability. The way some channels sensationalize news and run biased debates is harmful to society. We need responsible journalism, not TRP-driven drama. 👍
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Arjun K
The three-level mechanism sounds thorough on paper. Self-regulation first is the right approach. But the Level-III government oversight makes me a bit wary. The line between regulation and control is thin. We must guard against potential overreach that could stifle legitimate criticism.
S
Sarah B
As someone who watches Indian news from abroad, the shift in tone over the years has been noticeable. Rules are fine, but the culture within newsrooms needs to change. Will this actually stop the spread of misinformation during sensitive times?
M
Meera T
Absolutely necessary. Some prime-time shows are pure poison, designed to create divides. Prohibiting content that attacks religions or communities is basic decency. Hope the 'apology scroll' order is used often for those spreading hate.
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Vikram M
The rules exist since 1995, the amendment is from 2021... so what's new now? Enforcement has always been the issue. Will we see action against the big channels with political connections, or only the smaller ones? The mechanism is only as good as its implementation.
K
Kavya N

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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