Sun TV: MHA to cite reasons, I&B to issue showcause notice

Last week, the MHA had denied mandatory security clearance to the Sun TV network for the renewal of broadcast licences for its 33 television channels and asked the I&B Ministry not to disclose the reasons behind the denial. Sun TV network is promoted by Kalanidhi Maran, brother of former Communications and IT Minister Dayanidhi Maran.

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In March, the MHA had also denied security clearance to four companies of the Sun network.

Fearing that such a move could land it on a sticky wicket in case the issue went to court, the I&B Ministry had reportedly sought a clarification from the MHA.

The Home ministry has reportedly cited the Maran brothers’ alleged involvement in the Aircel-Maxis case, another case which pertains to the alleged laundering of funds to the tune of Rs 550 crore and alleged unlawful gains of over Rs 400 crore by operating an illegal telephone exchange from the premises of Sun TV as reasons behind denying the security clearance.

The issuance of a showcause notice would eliminate the threat of immediate closure of Sun TV channels, said sources in the I&B Ministry.
“As per the principles of natural justice, they need to be given a hearing. Once they respond to the showcause notice, we’ll decide what needs to be done next,” they said.