Effective mechanisms in place to handle any situation: BARC on TV9 case

Hindi News channel TV9 Bharatvarsh’s meteoric climb to the second spot in this genre in Week 25, as per BARC data [HSM (U+R) : NCCS All : 2+ Individuals], has raised several eyebrows in the industry. The channel garnered gross viewership of 220,240(000) in Week 25, taking it ahead of Zee News, India TV and Republic Bharat and below only the No. 1 player Aaj Tak. The channel also recorded a market share of 12.6 per cent [Source – BARC, TG-15+, Market – HSM, Period – Wk20'20 - Wk 25’20]. The market share has been on a rise since Week 22.

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There have been allegations of tampering of data in the case of TV9 Bharatvarsh, as reported by a section of the media, as well as concerns over whether the panel homes have been compromised. A video purportedly showing TV9 Network’s interference in panel homes has been doing the rounds for some time now.

When Adgully reached out to BARC India to shed light on the industry concerns over tampering of data and interference in panel homes, a BARC India spokesperson replied, “BARC India provides the industry with transparent, accurate and robust data and we will continue to do so. BARC India is driven by processes and has effective mechanisms in place, including Vigilance Team, to handle any situation.”

The spokesperson further said, “BARC India continues to be deeply engaged with our subscribers and address all their clarifications well on time. We have diligently maintained high standards of commitment and quality timeliness despite the lockdown. The communication between BARC and its subscribers are privileged and confidential communication. Our subscribers are aware that the complaint redressal system is well in place and is available on our website.”