MIB directs cable operators to stop transmission of un-authorised channels

The Ministry of Information & Broadcasting (MIB) has directed cable operators and DTH operators to stop the broadcast or transmission of non-permitted channels such as Peace TV with immediate effect.

In a notice issued, the Ministry stated: “The undersigned is directed to draw your attention to reports of security threats due to TV content aimed at inciting communal and terrorist violence. In particular, reports are being received of such content being broadcast through private satellite TV channels, such as Peace TV channel, which are not permitted by this Ministry for downlinking into the country. lt is therefore essential that broadcast or transmission of such non-permitted channels is stopped immediately by the cable operators and DTH operators.”

As per the Section 5 of the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act 1995, no person shall transmit or re-transmit through a cable service any programme unless such programme is in conformity with the programme code. In the Cable Television Network (CTN) Rules 1994 framed under the cable TV Act, the nature of the contents prohibited to be transmitted or re-transmitted are given in the in the programme code under Rule 6 of these Rules.
Sub Rule 6(6) of the Cable TV Rules specifies that no cable operator shall carry or include in his cable service any television broadcast or channel which has not been registered by the Central Government for being viewed within the territory of India.

Transmission or re-transmission of any TV channel in violation of the Section 5 of the Cable TV Act read with Rule 6(6) by any cable operator is an offence which attracts action against the operators by the authorised officers.