Broadcasters too may face music for obscene content

Instead of cable operators, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (I&B) may pull up broadcasters of news channels for airing obscene and disturbing content. This may happen even without the implementation of the proposed content code.

Taking a serious view of the provisions of the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995, which holds only cable operators responsible for airing obscene content, the I&B ministry is said to be studying the Cable Act to see what changes can be made to make the broadcasters accountable.

Under the cable Act, the equipment of cable operators can be confiscated for showing obscene content. Also, there is a provision of a jail sentence of up to two years.

"The content code talks about content regulators for each TV channel. But as its implementation will take some time, we can amend the Act to include broadcasters. We have seen that several broadcasters tend to neglect the programme code guidelines while airing their shows," said a senior official in the I&B ministry.

This has also been requested by the Cable Operators Federation of India (COFI), a recognised body representing the cable operators.

"We have pointed out to the ministry that with so many news channels on air, the fight for ratings makes the channels go overboard and results in stories with obscene visuals. When a complaint is lodged, cable operators are pulled up by the local officials and no questions are asked from the channels,"said Roop Sharma, president of the COFI.

The I&B ministry has taken a serious view of recent news stories that have shown violence against women, partial nudity and other obscene content without informing the viewers about it.