BBC India to split into two entities to meet foreign investment rules

In response to India's foreign investment regulations and recent regulatory scrutiny, the BBC in India has undergone a significant restructuring, dividing its operations into two separate entities effective Wednesday. This move aims to ensure compliance with Indian laws while maintaining its commitment to delivering news to its vast audience.

The BBC will retain its core newsgathering team in India, which will continue to operate for its English language digital, television, and radio outlets from its headquarters in London. Meanwhile, a new independent Indian-owned company named the ‘Collective Newsroom’ will take charge of producing content for the BBC's six other Indian language services.

This development follows a series of events, including income tax officials' searches of BBC India's offices, which occurred subsequent to the airing of a critical documentary on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. These incidents underscored the need for the BBC to navigate regulatory requirements while maintaining its journalistic integrity.

The Collective Newsroom, formed by four BBC staff members, aims to uphold a commitment to quality journalism. With approximately 200 former BBC employees on board, the company will not only cater to the BBC's language services but also provide content for other news providers in India and globally.

Despite the restructuring, the BBC reaffirms its dedication to its Indian audience, where it boasts an average weekly viewership of 82 million across its English and language services. Established in 1940 with the launch of its Hindi service, the BBC has a longstanding presence in India's media landscape.

Rupa Jha, Chief Executive of Collective Newsroom, emphasized the company's mission to deliver credible, creative, and courageous journalism. She highlighted the importance of serving the public interest and amplifying diverse voices and perspectives.

The move marks a significant step for the BBC, which has also applied for a 26% stake in the Collective Newsroom, signaling its commitment to the new venture. As the media landscape continues to evolve, this strategic maneuver underscores the broadcaster's adaptability and commitment to serving its audiences both in India and globally.