Question : Cable Television Networks (Regulations) Act, 1995

(a) whether the Government has directed a M/s Reporter news channel for a submission regarding adherence to the Programme Code laid down under the Cable Television Networks (Regulations) Act, 1995 upon a complaint received on 26.10.2021 from a public representative and if so, the details thereof;

(b) whether the said news channel has made any submission before the Government for adherence to the Programme Code after 26.10.2021;

(c) if so, the details thereof along with the submission made by the said news channel before the Government and the apology aired on the channel on the topic; and

(d) if not, the reasons therefor?

MINISTER OF INFORMATION AND BROADCASTING; AND MINISTER OF YOUTH AFFAIRS AND SPORTS (SHRI ANURAG SINGH THAKUR)

(a) to (d): All programmes telecast on private satellite TV channels are required to adhere to the Programme Code laid down under the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995 and the rules framed thereunder. The Cable Television Network (Amendment) Rules, 2021, notified on 17.6.2021 provides for a three level mechanism for redressal of grievances relating to violation of Programme Code by the broadcasters. All complaints, including that received on 26.10.2021, are addressed in accordance with the grievance redressal mechanism laid down under the Rules, after affording due opportunity to the broadcaster. After following due procedure, an order was issued to Reporter News channel to run an apology scroll for two days for violation of Rule 6(1)(d) of the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995 and the rules framed thereunder. The channel has run the Apology Scroll.
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