Why in news?
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting ordered the Broadcast Audience Research Council (BARC) to stop releasing television viewership ratings for four weeks. The ministry said some news channels had carried sensational coverage of the war in West Asia and raised concerns about creating panic. Suspension of ratings aims to discourage channels from focusing on graphic content and to protect public interest.
Background
BARC is an industry body that measures television audiences in India by combining data from thousands of set-top boxes. Television ratings, also called Target Rating Points (TRPs), help advertisers decide where to place advertisements. Broadcasters compete fiercely for higher ratings because more viewers attract more advertising revenue.
Key points
- Sensational coverage: The ministry noted that some Hindi news channels showed disturbing footage and battlefield images during the West Asia conflict, which could cause distress among viewers.
- Temporary halt: BARC was directed to stop publishing TRPs for four weeks and to avoid content that may harm national security or public order during this period.
- Responsibility of broadcasters: News channels have been reminded to follow the Programme Code prescribed under the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, which prohibits content that is obscene, defamatory or likely to incite violence.
Significance
The suspension underscores the government’s role in regulating news content and maintaining decorum during sensitive events. It also highlights the influence of TRP ratings on the behaviour of television networks, which sometimes prioritise sensational stories over balanced coverage.
Source: The Hindu