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The people’s newsroom

PolicyBroadcasting

I&B ministry warns TV channels over Programme Code, says AI must stay 'assistive'

An advisory to private satellite channels on Wednesday flags breaches found by an inter-departmental committee and tells broadcasters to keep generative AI away from the editorial core of news.

From the editorial desk · New DelhiPublished

Key points

  1. The I&B ministry told private channels to strictly follow the Programme Code or face regulatory action.
  2. AI use in news and programmes 'may be limited to assistive capacity', the advisory says.
  3. Channels are told to mute, warn or cut feeds to keep abusive or provocative remarks off air.

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting on Wednesday told private satellite television channels to comply strictly with the Programme Code and to be careful in how they use artificial intelligence, warning that breaches could draw regulatory action.

The advisory follows a review by an inter-departmental committee, which found that several channels had aired telecasts not in line with the “spirit of the Programme Code”. The committee also noticed similar news reports and visuals on the same topics running across several channels, which it said raised compliance concerns. The ministry has not named the channels or the programmes involved.

Limits on AI

The ministry raised concern about the growing use of AI, including generative AI, for graphics, virtual news presenters and other programming. Its use “may be limited to assistive capacity”, the advisory says, and must not compromise the accuracy, authenticity or sensitivity of news. Broadcasters are expected to keep their editorial standards and make sure technology does not distort factual reporting.

Debates and panellists

The advisory also turns to studio debates. Channels are asked to choose and brief panellists carefully so that communal, inflammatory or anti-national content does not go on air, and not to let objectionable language or conduct become normal on television. Where remarks turn derogatory, abusive or provocative, channels should mute them, carry warnings or disclaimers, or stop the feed.

The Programme Code is laid down under the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995 and the Cable Television Networks Rules, 1994. The ministry said any breach could invite action under the existing framework but did not set out penalties.