NBDSA penalizes TV channels for hate speech, urges responsible journalism

The News Broadcasting and Digital Standards Authority (NBDSA) has taken action against three television channels for airing shows deemed to be hate speech. Times Now Navbharat and News18 India were fined ₹1 lakh and ₹50,000 respectively, while Aaj Tak received a warning. All channels were ordered to remove the offending content from online platforms within seven days.

The action stems from complaints against programs related to the Shraddha Walkar murder case and Ram Navami violence. NBDSA President Justice (retd.) A.K. Sikri emphasized the importance of impartiality, stating that "calling every interfaith marriage 'love jihad' is wrong." He cautioned against the irresponsible use of the term, highlighting its potential to undermine India's secular fabric.

Justice Sikri directed channels to exercise extreme caution when using the term "love jihad," and reiterated the media's responsibility to avoid targeting entire communities based on the actions of individuals. This echoes concerns raised last year when NBDSA reprimanded two channels for violating broadcasting guidelines.

The article further emphasizes the importance of responsible journalism in a democracy, citing Justice Dhananjaya Y. Chandrachud's remarks at the Ramnath Goenka Excellence in Journalism Awards. Justice Chandrachud compared responsible journalism to an "engine that drives democracy towards a better tomorrow," emphasizing the need for accuracy, impartiality, and fearlessness in reporting.

However, the article also acknowledges the pressures faced by the media, both from external sources like the government and from within media management itself. It emphasizes the need for journalists to maintain a clear ideological perspective and resist compromising their principles for commercial gain.

The article concludes by highlighting the public's trust in the media and the importance of upholding ethical standards. It calls for an independent, impartial, and responsible media as essential for a healthy democracy and the well-being of citizens.