An official told News Agency Kashmir News Service (KNS) that the suspension will remain in force for a period of four weeks, or until further orders are issued, whichever is earlier.

 

Citing concerns over public safety, the official said that the Ministry observed certain television news channels had been airing content deemed as "unwarranted sensationalism and speculative reporting" related to the escalating situation between Israel and Iran. Such coverage could "potentially create panic" among the general public, particularly affecting Indian citizens with family and friends residing in or near the conflict zones, the official added.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

 

The direction has been issued under the 'Policy Guidelines for Television Rating Agencies in India' dated January 16, 2014. Invoking Clause 24.2 of the guidelines, the Ministry mandated BARC's compliance, stating that the order was being passed in the interest of the larger public good.

 

"Therefore, in the public interest, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting hereby directs M/s BARC to immediately withhold reporting the Television Rating Points (TRPs) for news TV channels," the official told KNS.

 

This marks a significant regulatory intervention by the government to curb what it perceives as irresponsible reporting during times of international crisis. (KNS)