WJAI Applauds MIB Guidelines Amidst Indo-Pak Tensions, Stresses National Interest in Sensitive Times
Patna: The Web Journalists Association of India (WJAI) has welcomed the guidelines issued by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) and the Ministry of Home Affairs for Indian media amidst the prevailing tensions between India and Pakistan. The association emphasised that the national interest is paramount when reporting on sensitive issues.
The Indian government has directed media outlets to refrain from publishing or broadcasting any misleading or rumour-based news. It has also appealed to them to avoid sharing information regarding the movement of the Indian armed forces, details of any operations, or specific locations in news reports or on social media.
In its directive, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has instructed all media publishers to meticulously verify any content before publication or broadcast, ensuring it does not compromise India's sovereignty and integrity, endanger national or state security, or strain friendly relations with other countries. The ministry also cautioned against publishing or sharing content that could incite violence or disrupt public order. Furthermore, the MIB has directed all OTT platforms and media streaming services to immediately cease streaming any web series, films, songs, podcasts, or other media content originating from Pakistan.
The WJAI has lauded the actions of the Indian armed forces under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the MIB's guidelines for the media during this period of heightened India-Pakistan tensions. WJAI National President Anand Kaushal appealed to all members of the organisation, as well as all web journalists and media publishers, to adhere to the guidelines issued by the central government in light of the current situation.
"Our country has always been a proponent of peace and non-violence," Mr. Kaushal stated. "Recently, terrorists mercilessly killed our innocent citizens in an attack in Pahalgam. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Indian Army targeted and destroyed terrorist camps located in Pakistan, following which a rattled Pakistan has initiated a conflict with India. The Indian Army is compelling Pakistan to face defeat in this undeclared war and has inflicted significant losses upon them. We commend the indomitable courage and valour of our Indian Army."
The National President also cautioned that Pakistan is attempting to spread various forms of misinformation during this time, urging vigilance. "It is crucial to avoid disseminating news on social media and web media without verifying facts and ascertaining the truth in any matter," he added.