Question : FASHION T.V. CHANNEL

(a) whether attention of the Government has been drawn to the fashion programmes being telecast by Fashion-TV Channel, containing see-through dresses and semi-nude depiction of women;
(b) if so, the steps proposed to be taken to curb beaming of such obscenic shows;
(c) whether instructions are likely to be issued by the Government to the local Cable TV operators not to give connections to such Channel in their satellite connection;
(d) if so, the details thereof; and
(e) if not, the reasons therefor?

THE MINISTER OF STATE OF THE MINISTRY OF INFORMATION AND BROADCASTING AND MINSTER OF STATE OF THE DEPARTMENT OF DISINVESTMENT

( SHRI ARUN JAITLEY )

(a): Yes, Sir.

(b) to (e): Fashion TV channel is uplinked from foreign soil. Therefore, its telecast does not fall within the purview of Indian laws. However, distribution of such channels through cable networks is subject to provisions of Cable Television Networks Act. The Programme code specified in the rules under the Act prohibits denigration of women. Obscenity is also punishable under the Indian Penal Code. Under both such provisions local officers have the jurisdiction to initiate action for prosecution with the Courts.

Government proposes to bring before the Parliament a comprehensive legislation which will inter alia provide for regulatory mechanism for various aspects of broadcasting.