Child rights panel welcomes order directing TV channels not to show condom ads between 6am to 10pm

The I&B ministry said there have been complaints over TV channels airing condom ads, which are claimed to be indecent for children.

The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) on Tuesday welcomed the government’s order asking television channels not to air condom advertisement between 6am and 10pm.

The government told TV channels to air condom ads late at night. (Shutterstock)

In an advisory to all television channels on Monday, the Information and Broadcasting Ministry had asked channels to restrict condom advertisements to late night.

“We have received complaints regarding condom advertisements showing inappropriate content. We welcome the decision of the government,” NCPCR chairperson Stuti Kacker told PTI.

The ministry said that it was brought to its notice that some channels carry advertisements of condoms repeatedly which are alleged to be indecent, especially for children.

It referred to Rule 7 (7) of the Cable Television Networks Rules 1994, which says, “No advertisement which endangers the safety of children or create in them any interest in unhealthy practices or shows them begging or in an undignified or indecent manner shall not be carried in the cable service”.

It also cited Rule 7 (8) which states that “indecent, vulgar, suggestive, repulsive or offensive themes or treatment shall be avoided in all advertisements”.

TV channels are hereby advised not to telecast the advertisements of condoms, which are for a particular age group, and could be indecent/inappropriate for viewing by children, the advisory read.