Republic TV hits back as Mumbai Police chief names channel in fake TRP racket

A case of BARC meter tampering case has surfaced in Mumbai. As per media reports, Mumbai Police has arrested two persons in this regard. The Mumbai Police stated that TRPs of certain TV channels were being manipulated by households with BARC Peoplemeters being asked to keep these TV channels switched on even when they weren’t being watched.

Media reports quoted Mumbai Police Commissioner Param Bir Singh naming three channels found indulging in manipulating the TRPs – Republic TV, Fakt Marathi and Box Cinema.

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Meanwhile, reacting to the accusations levelled by the Mumbai Police, Republic TV put out a statement on its Twitter feed, stating, “Mumbai Police Commissioner Param Bir Singh has made false allegations against Republic TV because we have questioned him in the Sushant Singh Rajput case investigation. Republic TV will file a criminal defamation case against Mumbai Police Commissioner Param Bir Singh. There is not a single BARC report that mentions Republic TV. The people of India know the truth. Mr Param Bir Singh’s investigation in the Sushant Singh Rajput case is under a cloud and this is a desperate measure because of Republic TV’s reportage on Palghar, the Sushant Singh Rajput case or any other case. This kind of targeting only strengthens the resolve of everyone at Republic TV to push for the truth even harder. Param Bir Singh stands completely exposed today, since BARC has not mentioned Republic in any single complaint. He should issue an official apology and get ready to face us in court.”

A statement released by the Broadcast Audience Research Council India (BARC India) said, “As in all our previous cases of suspected panel homes intrusions, BARC India continues to follow its established vigilance and disciplinary guidelines. BARC remains steadfastly true to its purpose to accurately and faithfully report ‘What India Watches’. BARC India appreciates the efforts of the Mumbai Police and will provide the support asked of it.”