The NBA said it rebukes any attempt to target journalists. (Figurative)
The NBA is very concerned about the turn of events in Mumbai, as the confrontation between Republic TV and the Mumbai police poses a threat to the credibility and respect of two major institutions, the media and the police. We are deeply concerned that journalists working in the newsroom have become victims of this unfortunate conflict.
We do not condone the type of journalism that Republic TV practices. And although Republic TV is not a member of the NBA and does not subscribe to our Code, we still make a strong exception to the cases brought against its editorial staff. We defend the freedom of speech and expression of the media enshrined in the Constitution of India. At the same time, we support the practice of ethics in journalism and put fair and balanced information at the center of what we report.
The NBA rebukes any attempt to target journalists doing their work in newsrooms, but on the other hand, we disapprove of any vindictive media reporting. We condemn unsubstantiated story information that subverts and interferes with the operation of law enforcement agencies.
We call on the Mumbai police to ensure that no journalist is the victim of this crossfire. We also call on journalists working with Republic TV not to cross the Lakshman Rekha, as the Bombay High Court clearly observed.
NBA reiterates once again that it does not support toxic content and unethical journalism. The news stations are governed by the independent regulatory body, NBSA, headed by (retired) Judge AK Sikri. The NBSA over the years has played an extremely important role as a watchdog in monitoring the content of news channels. He has acted against well-known national and regional broadcasters by imposing fines, apologies and warnings in various matters, including covering the death of the late actor Sushant Singh Rajput. We appeal that non-member broadcasters are required to follow the Code of Ethics and NBSA Guidelines.
NBA also expresses serious concern about the open FIR registered by UP police against the media for alleged manipulation of TRP. The speed with which the case was transferred to CBI overnight raises questions about the intentions. A complaint filed against unknown persons by an individual who does not have locus standi can lead to a witch hunt against the media, its advertisers and advertising agencies. We sincerely urge the government to immediately withdraw the case referred to CBI.
BARC has a mechanism to treat these cases. An internal competent body headed by Judge (Retired) Mukul Mudgal has the capacity and power to investigate cases involving the manipulation of TRP data. All cases related to tampering with the PRT should be transferred to this authority.
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