(a) the details of Government media units operating in Gujarat at the time of Gujarat carnage
and thereafter;
(b) the details of work done by each of them during and after outbreak of violence in
Gujarat so far;
(c) whether some of the units have been withdrawn; and
(d) if so, the details thereof?
MINISTER OF INFORMATION AND BROADCASTING (SMT. SUSHMA SWARAJ)
(a):Besides All India Radio and Doordarshan, the Units of Press Information Bureau, Directorate
of Advertising and Visual Publicity and the private registered parties of Song & Drama Division
were functioning in Gujarat at the time of recent riots in Gujarat and thereafter.
(b): Doordarshan Kendra, Ahmedabad and Rajkot worked together during the said period and
thereafter for coverage of news, telecast of programmes, messages on communal harmony,
quickies etc.
The two Regional News Units of All India Radio at Ahmedabad and Bhuj worked
constantly for restoration of peace in riot affected Gujarat by putting out impartial and objective
news stories and news-based programmes. Appeals made by the President, the Prime Minister,
the State Governor and the Chief Minister as well as by leaders of political parties and
Communities for maintaining communal harmony were included in the news bulletins. The relief
packages announced by the State were given wide coverage in the news bulletins.
The Song & Drama Division, Pune Regional Centre deputed the private registered parties
for presentation of programmes on the themes of National Integration, Communal Harmony and
Anti-terrorism in Gujarat.
The Ahmedabad Unit of Directorate of Advertising & Visual Publicity put up
exhibitions at various places in the State.
The Press Information Bureau offices at Rajkot and Ahmedabad issued articles and
features relating to peace and communal harmony. It provided publicity support to Defence and
Paramilitary Forces highlighting the role of armed and paramilitary forces in civilian duty. A
Sadbhavana Rally was organized with active support of PIB. It also helped in organizing a
Seminar on `Role of Media in Communal Harmony and Peace` on 1.5.2002 in Ahmedabad.
(c): No, Sir.
(d): Does not arise.