Broadcasters draft own code, say sting ops 145;last resort146;

The News Broadcasters Association has finally formulated its own version of a "Broadcasting Bill" aimed towards self-regulation...

The News Broadcasters Association NBA has finally formulated its own version of a 8220;Broadcasting Bill8221; aimed towards self-regulation of the broadcasting sector. The NBA has formulated a two-pronged set of regulations including a 8220;Code of Ethics 038; Broadcasting Standards8221; and 8220;News Broadcasting Standards Disputes Redressal Regulations8221;. The Code advocates that sting operations should be used a last resort and there should be no glorification of violence, superstition or nudity on broadcast. Also, a corrigendum should be aired at high visibility timings to acknowledge errors.

8220;The Code and Regulations have been vetted by Harish Salve, Senior Advocate and former Solicitor General of India. The NBA has submitted these for consideration to the Government. It is proposed as a well thought out and comprehensive code of ethics and disputes redressal for its members as a measure of self-regulation. The Regulations are meant for effective implementation of the Code,8221; said a statement issued by NBA.

The Information 038; Broadcasting Ministry has been attempting to bring a Broadcasting Bill and Content Code into effect for a while now. However, broadcasters strongly resisted any government interference in news dissemination and formed the NBA last year to formulate their own self-regulatory system.

In its Code of Ethics, NBA has taken a strong line on sting operations, terming them the 8220;last resort8221; of news channels in their attempt to give viewers comprehensive coverage of any news story. The code suggests that news channels should not use sex and sleaze or narcotics and psychotropic substances or any act of violence, intimidation, or discrimination as a justifiable means in the recording of any sting operation.

In keeping with the principle of accuracy and impartiality, all news channels must ensure that significant mistakes made in the course of any broadcast are acknowledged and corrected on air immediately. Corrections should also be scheduled in such a way that they attract enough viewer attention and are not concealed, says the code.

The NBA has called for ensuring accuracy, impartiality, neutrality and objectivity in reporting, staying away from obviously defamatory or libelous news content. The code calls for refraining from glorification of violence, advocacy of superstition or occultism and nudity as well as any representation that can endanger or compromise national security.