NBDA issues advisory against inviting Pakistan based commentators on TV

In the aftermath of the recent terror attack on tourists in Pahalgam, the News Broadcasters & Digital Association (NBDA) has issued a strongly worded advisory to all its member channels, urging them to refrain from inviting commentators from Pakistan who are known to promote anti-India narratives.

Labelled "Urgent & Confidential," the advisory draws attention to the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting concern regarding certain channels that have been featuring Pakistani panellists known for spreading what the ministry describes as "false propaganda against India."

The advisory, signed by Annie Joseph, Secretary General of NBDA, states: "Editors of NBDA are advised to refrain from inviting panellists, speakers, and commentators from Pakistan in their programme(s), who are known for espousing views that undermine the sovereignty, integrity, and security of the nation and speak against our country."

It calls on all editors and digital heads to exercise a "high level of editorial discretion and judgment" to ensure that television channels and digital platforms are not misused to amplify anti-India voices.

NBDA has further requested that the advisory be circulated among all concerned editorial personnel to ensure compliance.