Avoid re-runs of Mumbai terror attack on TV: I & B ministry

The government directed TV channels not to broadcast scenes of the Mumbai terror attack as it may evoke strong sentiments among those affected by it.

The government on Thursday directed TV channels not to broadcast scenes of the Mumbai terror attack as it may evoke strong sentiments among those affected by it.

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"Gory scenes should not be shown, tragedy should not be replayed," said the Information and Broadcasting Ministry in its advisory adding, "media has a great role to play to ensure return of normalcy."

Following a meeting late last night, Information and Broadcasting Ministry officials decided to send an advisory to all television channels which included certain guidelines regarding coverage of the Mumbai terror attacks.

The advisory sought an assurance that channels would avoid running stories pertaining to the recent attacks, which might make the terrorists feel that their operation was successful.

The live coverage of terror attacks in Mumbai last week saw the viewership of 24-hour news channels jump 180 per cent, according to Television Audience Measurement (TAM) data for the week ended November 29, 2008.

Explaining the kind of coverage sought by the ministry, the advisory stated: "News coverage pertaining to the event should project that India is not demoralised and has risen despite all terrorist attacks as normalcy has been restored. News coverage should project that India is a global power which has full support of the international community."

The advisory also mentioned that media is a harbinger of peace and normalcy and should not promote "insecurity". The official note from the ministry carries a strong message for the media to adhere to self-regulation.