The complainant, Ghorpade, had alleged in the complaint that this broadcast violated NBDSA’s regulatory standards, which are designed to prevent content that promotes superstition, glorifies the supernatural, or contributes to religious intolerance. At the heart of the complaint is Shastri’s self-professed supernatural abilities and his inflammatory statements regarding Hindu nationalism and other religions. The program, titled “Baba Bageshwar Exclusive Interview,” is claimed to have allowed Shastri to make statements without adequate disclaimers or counterpoints, which Ghorpade argues could mislead viewers and incite religious disharmony.

The following sections provide a detailed breakdown of the complaint, the broadcaster’s response, the complainant’s counterarguments, and the final ruling by NBDSA.

Issues raised by the complainant

Ghorpade filed the complaint on July 11, 2023, two days after the program aired, citing concerns over how the program presented Shastri’s controversial views without sufficient context or disclaimers. Specifically, Shastri claimed supernatural abilities, stating he could locate missing animals, predict elections, and discover hidden resources, such as diamonds, through mystical means. Additionally, he made bold assertions about converting India into a “Hindu nation” and used language that could be interpreted as inflammatory towards other religious groups.  Ghorpade’s grievance was that News18 India had violated NBDSA’s Code of Ethics by allowing this content, which, he argued, glorified superstition, risked misleading viewers, and potentially incited communal tension.

The complainant raised multiple concerns regarding the nature and content of the broadcast, which, he argued, contained misleading information and reflected bias. He pointed out that the broadcast painted individuals involved in a negative light without sufficient factual basis, potentially damaging their reputations. According to the complaint, the program failed to offer a balanced perspective, choosing instead to highlight certain narratives over others, which resulted in “sensationalism over factual reporting.”

The complaint cited specific examples from the broadcast that allegedly violated NBDSA’s guidelines on impartiality and objectivity. Ghorpade’s submission underscored that the broadcaster’s portrayal was not only inaccurate but was presented in a way that amplified a single viewpoint, neglecting alternative perspectives that were crucial to an unbiased understanding of the issue.

Broadcaster’s submissions

News18 India defended itself by emphasising that the interview with Shastri was live, making it challenging for the anchor to fact-check or control Shastri’s spontaneous statements. The broadcaster argued that the views expressed during the interview were solely those of Shastri and were neither endorsed nor supported by the channel. News18 India also highlighted that Shastri was a prominent figure whose activities had captured public interest, and, as such, there was legitimate news value in covering his perspectives. The channel claimed its anchor made efforts to clarify that Shastri’s claims were personal beliefs and not objective truths.

In addition to this, the broadcaster defended its editorial choices, asserting that the program had been created within the bounds of journalistic freedom and served a legitimate public interest. The broadcaster argued that its intent was to inform viewers about pertinent issues, and it claimed that the broadcast was factually accurate. Furthermore, they maintained that editorial decisions were made in accordance with standard practices, emphasising that the program was not designed to mislead or harm any party involved.

The broadcaster further cited its right to freedom of expression, insisting that its reporting provided a necessary platform for public discourse on critical issues. They claimed that their team had followed due diligence, presenting the story in a responsible manner. According to the broadcaster’s submission, the program’s approach was “consistent with the norms of ethical journalism” and in line with industry standards. 

The complainant’s rebuttal

In response, Ghorpade countered that broadcasters have a responsibility to ensure that the content aired on their platforms does not contravene ethical standards, even if made by guests. He argued that News18 India’s decision to feature Shastri—whose controversial views were widely known—without more stringent oversight, violated NBDSA guidelines. Furthermore, he contended that the program’s lack of sufficient rebuttal or critical questioning could lead viewers to accept Shastri’s supernatural claims as credible. Ghorpade requested strict action against News18 India to reinforce that broadcasters are accountable for the statements of their guests, especially when these statements are divisive or irrational.

Decision of the NBDSA

After carefully considering both the complaint and the broadcaster’s defence, the NBDSA ruled in favour of Ghorpade, finding that the broadcaster had indeed violated its standards. The authority concluded that the program “lacked a balanced approach,” a requirement that is integral to fair and responsible journalism. In the order, the NBDSA remarked that while freedom of the press is vital, it must be exercised with responsibility to avoid harm or misinformation.

The NBDSA instructed the broadcaster to issue a public apology to address the misleading aspects of the broadcast. Additionally, it directed the broadcaster to take corrective actions to prevent similar incidents in the future. “This decision,” the NBDSA stated in its order, “should serve as a reminder to all media organisations about the necessity of upholding ethical journalism standards.” The ruling made it clear that sensationalism should never replace factual reporting, and it emphasised the importance of presenting a balanced narrative.

The Authority noted that broadcasters have the editorial freedom to invite guests; however, this freedom is not without limits. NBDSA found that Shastri’s statements promoting superstition and making divisive religious claims were irresponsible and risked promoting communal disharmony. The Authority criticised the broadcaster for not issuing clear disclaimers and not challenging Mr. Shastri’s claims more rigorously.

As a result, NBDSA issued a warning to News18 India, advising against inviting guests likely to promote superstitious beliefs or socially divisive opinions. It also directed the broadcaster to remove the interview from all digital platforms and confirm this action in writing within seven days. The NBDSA stressed the importance of responsible journalism and reminded News18 India of its obligation to adhere to standards that ensure content does not mislead or promote irrational beliefs.

The NBDSA’s decision in this case underscores the vital role of media accountability and ethical reporting standards in protecting public trust. By ruling in favour of Ghorpade, the NBDSA has reaffirmed that journalistic freedom must be balanced with a commitment to integrity and impartiality. This ruling serves as a precedent, reinforcing that media organisations are responsible for avoiding sensationalism and presenting a fair, balanced view to their audiences. The NBDSA’s order not only addresses Ghorpade’s concerns but also sends a clear message to the media industry regarding the importance of upholding credibility and trust in journalism.

The complete order can be viewed here:

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The post NBDSA orders News18 India to remove broadcast promoting superstition and religious intolerance based on complaint by activist Indrajeet Ghorpade appeared first on SabrangIndia.

Through two orders passed by the News Broadcasting & Digital Standards Authority on February 28, the Authority has imposed fines of Rs. 50,000 and Rs 25,000 respectively in two separate complaints filed by CJP against the channel for airing two inflammatory and communally divisive shows.

The first such divisive telecast was titled ‘‘Desh nahi jhukne denge – Hinduo ke khilaf mahagathbandhan’’ was aired on January 18, 2022 and the other “Desh Nahin Jhukne Denge Aman Chopra के साथ” aired on October 4, 2022.

Both shows were hosted by Aman Chopra.

The show aired in January 2022 pitched Hindu voters against Muslim voters via an inflammatory narrative. The channel has been imposed a fine of Rs 50,000 for this telecast. The narrative became clear when the following tickers were displayed throughout the show’s running:

“15% Muslim 85% Hindu par bhari” (15% Muslims overshadow 85% Hindus)

“Jab Yogi Modi chale jayenge, tumhe kaun bachayega?” (When Yogi-Modi leave, who will save you?)

“Hinduon ke khilaf sab mil gaye hai?” (Everyone has colluded against the Hindus?)

The NBDSA observed in this order that the thrust of the programme had religious undertones and that it was communally polarizing. The Authority has thus imposed a fine of Rs. 50,000 and directed the channel to display NBDSA’s order once every hour for 24 hours between March 6 and March 7. Significantly, the NBDSA has also ordered removal of the video of the show from the channel’s website as well as YouTube and all hyperlinks including access.

It also directed the broadcaster to remove the video of the said broadcast, if still available on the website of the channel, or YouTube, and remove all hyperlinks including access which should be confirmed to NBDSA in writing within seven days of the Order.

Apart from CJP that was the main complainant, Mr Anuj Dubey had also filed a second complaint.

The Order of the NBDSA:

Continuing with its divisive and anti-Muslim agenda, the channel, News18 aired another show against which CJP filed a complaint, in October 2022. In this show, Chopra was seen visibly cheering the Gujarat Police for beating men publicly with a stick for allegedly having pelted stones at a garba event. The same incident for which an inquiry has been instituted against the police officers in question. Through the entire “debate”, the members of the panel brought into question not just the various principles of Islam as a religion but also mocked speakers belonging to the Muslim community by asking them to hail Hindus gods on national television. Against this show, Mr. Indrajeet Ghorpade had also filed a complaint.

News18 was fined Rs. 25000 over the inflammatory and contentious contents of this second debate show “Desh Nahin Jhukne Denge Aman Chopra के साथ” aired on October 4, 2022 hosted by Aman Chopra

The complainant(s) had argued that the show in question, was an example of a brazen display of hatred towards one community merely over questioning their entry into Navratra garba pandals. Through the entire debate, the panellists brought into question not just the various principles of Islam as a religion but also mocked speakers belonging to the Muslim community by asking them to hail Hindus gods on national television.

The Authority also directed the broadcaster to remove the video of the said broadcast, if still available on the website of the channel, or YouTube, and remove all hyperlinks including access which should be confirmed to NBDSA in writing within seven days of the Order.

NBDSA, in its order further also noted that the impugned broadcast emanated from a viral video from Khera district of Gujarat, which showed a few men being publicly flogged for allegedly pelting stones at a garba event. The order also observed that the i programme in question was interspersed with statements made by the anchor which targeted, vilified and castigated the entire Muslim community for the actions of a few miscreants.

Significantly, too, the Order has observed that the tickers which were aired during the impugned broadcast, raised rhetorical questions, thereby reinforcing the narrative created by the broadcaster and gave the impression that all Muslim men attended garba celebrations only with ulterior motives.

In this second order, the NBDSA observed that the police failed to condemn the unlawful police violence. It further held that generalised statements about the Muslim community were also made through the show thus violating the guidelines and Code of Ethics set out by the Authority. The Authority has thus imposed a fine of Rs. 25,000 on the channel and has directed that the video of the show be removed from the website and YouTube as well as all hyperlinks including access.

The Order of the NBDSA:

The post News18 India Fined by NBDSA for Airing Hateful Content in Two Shows, CJP Issues Press Release appeared first on SabrangIndia.

Citizens for Justice and Peace (CJP) has yielded positive result in yet another Hate Watch complaint against biased, stigmatizing, and communally motivated news coverage. The News Broadcasting and Digital Standards Authority (NBDSA) upheld on February 27, 2022, that the show “Desh Nahin Jhukne Denge Aman Chopra,” which aired on News18, violated the authority’s guidelines for fair and temperate reporting. NBDSA ordered that its video be removed from all platforms within seven days, or by March 7, 2023.

CJP had filed this complaint on October 10, 2022 with News18 for hosting an entire “debate” in national television wherein the members of the panel brought into question not just the various principles of Islam as a religion but also mocked speakers belonging to the Muslim community by asking them to hail Hindus gods on national television. The inflammatory and contentious debate show “Desh Nahin Jhukne Denge Aman Chopra के साथ” had aired on October 4, 2022, and was hosted by Aman Chopra.

The channel’s response was dated October 14, 2022 to our Complaint dated October 10, 2022, and CJP’s complaint to the NBDSA was dated October 22, 2022. Online hearings took place on November 11, 2022.

In its order dated February 27, 2023, the NBDSA noted NBDSA observed that the impugned programme was interspersed with statements made by the anchor such as “Gujarat Police ne unnke saath dandiya khela”; “Gujarat police ne unka ilaaj kia” Koi aur tyohar garba kea lava jisme interest ho muslim ladko ka? Aap hairani hoti hai?”; “Ye jo (Muslim) log hai jo garbe mein jaate hai, ye vande mataram, ganpati bappa morya, jai shree ram, kyun nahi bolte? Inko garbe ki aarti mein interest nahi hai” “Koi aur ek aisa Hindu tyohar ho, jisme itni aastha hon Muslim yuwakon ki, bataiye koi? Jahan ghusme ke liye jhuth bhi bolenge”; “Karnatak ke idgah me ganesh utsav nahi manane dia tha.. tab kaha 10 gaya tha Secularism”; Aisa kya mil raha hai garbe me ki Islam ki sari rigidness khatam ho jati hai” and “Garbe mein itna interest kyun hai Muslim yuwakon ka? Koi aur tyohar mein itna interest nahi hai. Lekin pehchan chupakar kyun jaate hai?”, which targeted, vilified and castigated the entire Muslim community for the actions of a few miscreants. The NBDSA held that manner in which the debate was conducted was condemnable and the statements made by the anchor had the tendency to disturb the communal harmony in the country. 

It observed, “NBDSA held that by making generalized statements about members of the Muslim community as can be seen from the statements made by the anchor and by failing to condemn police violence in the impugned broadcast, the broadcaster had violated the Code of Ethics & Broadcasting Standards, Clause 9 of the Specific Guidelines covering Reportage pertaining to Racial & Religious Harmony and the Guidelines to prevent communal colour in reporting crimes, riots, rumours and such related incidents, which states that “in broadcasting the commission of crime etc., it must be borne in mind that any communal colour to it has no relevance and, therefore, any reference to the community of the accused corrodes our secular fabric”.

Furthermore, NBDSA took serious objection to the language used by the anchor in the programme and the repetitive nature of the violations of the NBDSA. It observed, “The broadcaster had failed to condemn police violence and in fact kept looping the video of the police beating the men. The thrust of the broadcast appeared to give the impression that the actions of the police were justified.”

Accordingly, the NBDSA decided to warn the broadcaster not to repeat the violations in future and also decided to impose a fine of Rs. 25,000 on the broadcaster. The NBDSA also directed that “the video of the said broadcast, if still available on the website of the channel, or YouTube, and remove all hyperlinks including access which should be confirmed to NBDSA in writing within 7 days of the Order.”

The order maybe read here: 

Objectionable content of the show:

The show had started with the host visibly cheering the Gujarat Police for beating men publicly with a stick for allegedly having pelted stones at a garba (festive dance) event. The host had said, “Aapko Gujarat Police ka Dandiya dikhatehai (We will show you “Dandiya” played by Gujarat Police)”. Then he went on to cheer them more as the beatings continue and the victims, visibly pained and begging for mercy saying “please forgive us”. He was clearly encouraging such brute and unlawful acts. Throughout the show, the host, Aman Chopra, had not tried to mask his bias in any manner, manipulated facts and actively participating in the communal diatribe.

The host had then started the “debate” taking opinions of his speakers where one of the speakers, speaking about celebration of festivals together said that be it any festival, Hindus and Muslims should respect them and celebrate together because in this country we live together with love. The host then egged him on, “Koi aur tyohar garba kea lava jisme interest ho muslim ladko ka? (Is there any other festival in which Muslim boys are interested?)”.

There were also repeated tickers running through the show: 

“Hamare garba me tumhara kya kaam hai” (What have you got to do with our Garba) 

“Garba par pattharbaji – apradh ya jihad?” (Garba and stone pelting – Crime or Jihad?) 

“Garba me zyadatar Muslim Naam badalkar kyu aate hai?” (Why do so many Muslims change their identity to play garb) 

“Muslim ilaakon me aayojan kyu nahi” (Why is [garba] not organized in Muslim localities) 

“Toh Muslim betiya shamil kyu nahi hoti?” (Why do muslim girls not participate [in garba] 

“Mazhab chipayenge ab patthar bhi barsayenge?” (Hiding their religion, now pelting stones too?)

The show had also depicted an animated image of a man wearing a skull cap holding a stone in his hand.

Previous Wins by the CJP

On the same date, February 27, another order was issued by the NBDSA against News 18 communal show, and in the favor of CJP. In the above-mentioned complaint, CJP had moved the NBDSA on January 18, 2022, against the News 18 show “Desh Nahi Jhukne Denge – ह िंदुओिंके ह़िलाफ़ म ागठबिंधन?”. The impugned news debate show had themes of communal divide throughout its narrative, with not just the participants of the debate but also the anchor of the show actively participating in the communal diatribe.

Deciding on the complaint, the NBDSA had noted that the thrust of the programme had religious undertones. By starting the debate on the premise that 20% people were ganging up against Hindus constituting 80%, the anchor had given the debate a thrust, which is communal in nature and not appropriate.

Therefore, in accordance with the violations of the channel, NBDSA decided to issue a warning to the broadcaster to be more careful in future as well as impose a fine of Rs. 50,000. They also directed the broadcaster to publicize NBDSA’s Order mandatorily on the ticker of its channel ‘News18 India’ once every hour for 24 hours starting from 8:00 AM on 6.3.2023 to 8:00 AM on 7.3.2023 in the following manner: “NBDSA found that the programme titled “Desh Nahi Jhukne Denge – ह दिं ओु िं के ह़िलाफ़ म ागठबिंधन?’ aired on News18 India dated 18.1.2022 had violated the Code of Ethics & Broadcasting Standards relating to Impartiality, Objectivity and Neutrality and Specific Guidelines Covering Reportage relating to Racial & Religious Harmony”.

In July, 2022, NBDSA had succeeded in getting another communally misleading show of News 18, titled ‘Toh hijab ke liye bam barsaenge?/ Danke ki chot par’ (Asking openly- So will bombs be hurled for hijab?) that aired on February 15, 2022, removed from their channel. In the said decision, the NBDSA had taken serious objection to the language used by the anchor in the programme. It observed, “The broadcasters must be mindful of their duty towards communities and telecast programmes which are accurate, balanced and impartial and in accordance with the Code of Ethics and Broadcasting Standards and Guidelines.”

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CJP complains to News18 against its partisan debate show over Garba celebrations

The post CJP Impact! NBDSA takes action on New18’s communal debate show, slams fine of Rs. 25,000 appeared first on SabrangIndia.

The News Broadcasting & Digital Standards Authority (NBDSA), in a substantial decision has imposed a fine of Rs. 50,000 on News18 India for airing its communally divisive show aired in January last year. In the show, the host, Aman Chopra had pitched Hindu voters against Muslim voters by using the term “80 vs. 20” and flagging off the show with a communally polarising question: Hinduon ke khilaf Uttar Pradesh me Mahagathbandhan tayyar ho raha hai, aur jab 80 vs. 20 ki baat ki thi Yogi Adityanath ne toh wo sahi thi? (A grand alliance is being formed in Uttar Pradesh against Hindus, and was Yogi Adityanath right when he said it is now 80 vs. 20?).

The main topic of discussion was the coming together of opposition parties against BJP and this was pitched as the opposition parties going against all Hindus thus effectively influencing voters to believe that only BJP was with Hindus. He was brazen enough to keep reiterating through the show that the opposing parties including the Congress and Samajwadi Party (SP) were against the Hindu population, making the election a religious battleground

The show was also rife with anti-Muslim statements such as :“15% Muslim 85% Hindu par bhari” (15% Muslims overshadow 85% Hindus) and “Hinduon ke khilaf sab mil gaye hai?” (Everyone has colluded against the Hindus?). As the anchor of a show on a news channel that is supposed to have a neutral and unbiased theme, the host did not even attempt to have any non-communal theme on the show.

CJP had highlighted in the complaint that the show had undertones of communal divide from the very outset, and that it looked more like a political campaign debate. It reeked of political agenda, since at that time the seven-phase Assembly elections were in progress in Uttar Pradesh. Mr Anuj Dubey was also another complainant who had approached NBDS against this show.

The NBDSA, after conducting a hearing and giving an opportunity to the complainants and the channel to be heard, observed that “the thrust of the programme had religious undertones. The Authority deemed that by starting the debate on the premise that 20% people were ganging up against Hindus constituting 80% of the state’s population, the anchor gave the debate a communal thrust which was found to be inappropriate by the Authority. The order stated that the anchor (Aman Chopra) “crossed threshold of impartiality by making statements such as “Ye 80 ke Khilaf hai mahagathbandhan” (this alliance is against 80) and “wo keh rahe hai ki unhey Hinduo se problem hai aur wo 80 ke khilaaf hai” (he is saying that he is against Hindus)

As per NBDSA, the show violated fundamental principles of Impartiality, Objectivity and Neutrality in reporting and the Specific Guidelines Covering Reportage relating to Racial and Religious Harmony.

NBDSA has directed News18 India to publicise this order on the ticker once every hour for 24 hours between 8 am on March 6 to 8 am on March 7. The Authority has also sought a recording of the ticker aired on the channel. Further, the channel has been directed to remove the video from its website, YouTube as well as all hyperlinks including access, within 7 days of the order.

The order may be read here: 

A similar order has been passed by NBDSA against News18 India where a fine of Rs.25,000 has been imposed for airing a debate the members of the panel brought into question not just the various principles of Islam as a religion but also mocked speakers belonging to the Muslim community by asking them to hail Hindus gods on national television. Aman Chopra was seen cheering the Gujarat police for publicly flogging some men tied to a pole, for allegedly having pelted stones at a garba event. The NBDSA condemned the fact that the anchor condoned the unlawful violence and tried to justify it on the show.

News18 India has been reprimanded by NBDSA on previous instances as well when CJP complained against their misleading show disseminating false news. The show displayed news that bombs were hurled at a school in West Bengal and raised questions like  “Kya hijab ki ladayibambazi par aa chukihai? Toh ab hijab ke liye bam barsenge?”, “Danke ki chot par puchrahi hu kya bam barsayenge, shiksha mei shariyat layenge?” (Translation: Has the battle for the hijab reached the extent of ‘bomb-bursting’? So will bombs be hurled for hijab? I am asking openly, will bombs be hurled, will the Muslim personal law be brought into education?). The entire show was premised on false news, prejudicial to one community, and that it appeared to have been telecast with the intent of misinforming the viewers, spreading hatred and most importantly, stigmatising and demonising the Muslim community. The NBDSA, in July last year ordered for removal of  the video of the show and had asked the channel to be mindful. ““Since the issues raised in the programme were of serious nature and had serious implications, the broadcaster should have waited to obtain a clarification from the Police or Government Authorities or conducted a proper investigation and verified the news from different sources before telecasting the programme,” the order read.

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CJP COMPLAINS TO NEWS18 AGAINST ITS PARTISAN DEBATE SHOW OVER GARBA CELEBRATIONS

The post News 18 India fined Rs.50,000 for airing communally divisive debate show: NBDSA appeared first on SabrangIndia.

The complaint argued that the programme attempted to link protesting Muslim girl-students and their supporters with a terrorist organization. The anchor and the panelists promoted dangerous stereotypes against the Muslim community.  

On October 26, Justice Sikri passed a speaking order directing that:

• The programme violated principles related to impartiality, neutrality, fairness, good taste and decency under the Specific Guidelines Covering Reportage, apart from the Code of Ethics and Broadcasting Standards. 

• The anchor failed to abide by Bombay HC’s Nitesh Navalakah case guidelines and SC’s guidelines on the role of a news anchor in a panel discussion to maintain balance, prevent the discussion from drifting, and muting panelists who fly off the tangent. 

• NBDSA advised News 18 to train Aman Chopra on how to conduct debates on sensitive matters.

• Considering the repeat nature of violations, NBDSA imposed a fine of Rs.50,000 on the channel.

• NBDSA warned News 18 India stating that if it commits future violations, it may summon Aman Chopra before the NBDSA committee.

• NBDSA ordered the channel to delete the programme from all digital spaces within 7 days.

• The programme is available here  

Indrajeet argued the case before NBDSA on September 30, 2022 and brought to its attention that News 18 India and its employee, Aman Chopra, are repeat offenders who routinely prompte anti-Muslim hate speech. I urged NBDSA to take stringent and effective measures against News 18 India in order to put an end to this severely harmful practice. My written complaint and submissions are available in the attached document (Pages 2-5). 

This complainant has previously argued several cases before the NBDSA such as misinformation against the Farmer’s protest, media trial of Umar Khalid, anti-Muslim UP Population Control programme, transphobic reports by Telugu broadcasters, insensitive reporting on the death of Sushant Singh Rajput, and many more.

The full order is available here, pages 7-8.

Additionally, the attachment includes NBDSA’s decision in another case (pages 15-16) that Indrajeet also filed against News 18 for it’s anti-Muslim coverage of the Jahangirpuri demolition drive in April 2022, also hosted by Aman Chopra. NBDSA found the reportage to be in violation of its Code of Ethics and expressed strong disapproval against the programme. It ordered the removal of the recording from all digital spaces. 

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NBDSA acts on CJP’s complaint, directs News18 to take down fake news video about bombing in WB school

The post NBDSA fines News18 50,000 for repeat hate violations by anchor Aman Chopra appeared first on SabrangIndia.

Citizens for Justice and Peace (CJP) hassent a notice to News18 India, complaining over the inflammatory and contentious contents of its debate show “Desh Nahin Jhukne Denge Aman Chopra केसाथ” aired on October 4, 2022 hosted by Aman Chopra. This is not the first instance where CJP has raised concerns about a show hosted by Chopra. In January this year, CJP had complained against the show where as a pre cursor to UP elections, Hindu voters were pitched against Muslim voters in a bid to create a communal divide. Apart from Indian law, the contents of the show violate the code of ethics of the News Broadcasting Digital & Statutory Authority (NBDSA).

The complaint outlines how, through the entire “debate”, the members of the panel brought into question not just the various principles of Islam as a religion but also mocked speakers belonging to the Muslim community by asking them to hail Hindus gods on national television.

The show started with the host visibly cheering the Gujarat Police for beating men publicly with a stick for allegedly having pelted stones at a garba (festive dance) event. The host says, “Aapko Gujarat Police ka Dandiya dikhate hai (We will show you “Dandiya”  played by Gujarat Police)”. Then he goes on to cheer them more as the beatings continue and the victims, visibly pained and begging for mercy saying “please forgive us”. He was clearly encouraging such brute and unlawful acts. An inquiry has now been set up by Gujarat Police against the two policemen seen indulging in the beatings.

The complaint points out certain problematic tickers that kept running throughout the show repeatedly:

“hamare garba me tumhara kya kaam hai” (What have you got to do with our Garba)
“Garba par pattharbaji – apradh ya jihad? (Garba and stone pelting – Crime or Jihad?)

“garba me zyadatar Muslim Naam badalkar kyu aate hai (Why do so many Muslims change their identity to play garba)”

“Muslim ilaakon me aayojan kyu nahi (Why is [garba] not organized in Muslim localities)

“Toh Muslim betiya shamil kyu nahi hoti (why do muslim girls not participate [in garba]

“Mazhab chipayenge ab patthar bhi barsayenge? (Hiding their religion, now pelting stones too?)

The complaint further states, “There is no iota  of doubt that the intention of the host was to incite Hindus against the Muslim by questioning why Muslims should get involved in garba celebrations, by justifying the unlawful police action of flogging Muslim men publicly, by picking one or two incidents to show that Muslims are acting against Hindus by stone pelting or by entering garba celebrations to eve tease Hindu girls, by posing baseless questions like why Muslim girls do not celebrate garba.”

News18 India has 14.9 million subscribers on YouTube and the channel has a reach though national television as well. The video itself has more than 3 lakh views on Youtube alone with more than 1,000 people having commented on the show with their versions of equally inciteful messages in the comment section on Youtube.

The complaint highlights that the show violates the many guidelines issued by the News Broadcasting Digital and Standards Authority (NBDSA) as also its Code of Ethics.

The complaint may be read here:

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The post CJP serves a notice to News18 over debate show justifying flogging of Muslim men by Gujarat Police appeared first on SabrangIndia.

Yet another Hate Watch complaint by Citizens for Justice and Peace (CJP) against biased, stigmatising and most importantly fake news coverage has succeeded. On July 26, 2022, the News Broadcasting and Digital Standards Authority (NBDSA) held that the show titled ‘Toh hijab ke liye bam barsaenge?/ Danke ki chot par’ that aired on News18, violated the authority’s guidelines for fair and temperate reportage. NBDSA directed that its video be pulled down from all platforms within seven days, that is by August 2, 2022.

CJP had filed this complaint on February 21, 2022 with News18 for their unverified and misleading live debate programme titled ‘Toh hijab ke liye bam barsaenge?/ Danke ki chot par’ (Transaltion: Asking openly- So will bombs be hurled for hijab?) that aired on February 15, 2022. The show appreared to be stigmatising and demeaning the Muslim community on national television by broadcasting unverified news.

The channel’s response was dated March 11, 2022 to our Complaint dated February 21, 2022, and CJP’s complaint to the NBDSA was dated March 15, 2022. Online hearings took place on June 15, 2022 and Supreme Court lawyer Ms. Aparna Bhat alongwith Teesta Setalvad, Secretary, Citizens for Justice and Peace (CJP) appeared for the complainant.

In its order dated July 26, 2022, the NBDSA noted that the principle of Impartiality and Objectivity enshrined under the Code of Ethics & Broadcasting Standards requires news broadcasters to give accuracy and balance precedence over speed otherwise, there is a danger of broadcasting ‘fake news’. It observed, “Since the issues raised in the programme were of serious nature and had serious implications, the broadcaster should have waited to obtain a clarification from the Police or Government Authorities or conducted a proper investigation and verified the news from different sources before telecasting the programme. The impugned programme had a tendency of disturbing racial and religious harmony. Since the broadcaster had not verified the facts and checked the veracity of the tweets before conducting a programme based solely on the said tweets, it had violated the principles of Accuracy, Impartiality, Objectivity and Neutrality enshrined under the Code of Ethics & Broadcasting Standards and the Specific Guidelines covering Reportage.”

Furthermore, NBDSA took serious objection to the language used by the anchor in the programme. It observed, “The broadcasters must be mindful of their duty towards communities and telecast programmes which are accurate, balanced and impartial and in accordance with the Code of Ethics and Broadcasting Standards and Guidelines.”

Accordingly, the NBDSA decided to issue a warning to the broadcaster not to hold such debates without verifying the facts and therefore, NBDSA directed that “the video of the said broadcast, if still available on the website of the channel, or YouTube, or any other links, should be removed immediately, and the same should be confirmed to NBDSA in writing within 7 days of receipt of the Order.”

The order maybe read here:

Objectionable content

The entire show was premised on false news, prejudicial to one community, and that it appeared to have been telecast with the intent of misinforming the viewers, spreading hatred and most importantly, stigmatising and demonising the Muslim community. It was replete with misinformation and communal hatred throughout its narrative.

The show was flagged off by the host with communally charged questions, “Kya hijab ki ladayibambazi par aa chukihai? Toh ab hijab keliye bam barsenge?”, “Danke ki chot par puchrahi hu kya bam barsayenge, shikshameishariyatlayenge?” (Translation: Has the battle for the hijab reached the extent of ‘bomb-bursting’? So will bombs be hurled for hijab? I am asking openly, will bombs be hurled, will the Muslim personal law be brought into education?)

The host depicted a distorted view around the incident which took place at a school at Murshidabad, West Bengal by making statements such as “Desh ke kayi hisso mei pradarshan kari itne ugr ho chuke hai, haalat itne kharab ho gye hai ki hijab pehen kar aane se mana karne par school mei pathtar bazi ki gayi, tod phod kiya gaya, dawa kiya bam bhi yahan phenke gaye”  (Translateion: In various parts across the country the protesters have been so violent that they pelted stones in the school and vandalized it, it is ascertained that bombs were hurled at the school). This was not only stigmatising the opposition-ruled state of West Bengal, but also its significant minority population.

As per the complaint, it was revealed by fact-checkers and news portals such as Alt News and The Print, that in truth, there were no bombs being hurled during the protest, and the claims made by News 18 were not supported by any ground reports or statements from local administration officials.

The complaint brought to light the obvious bias of the channel and how the host would immediately divert from a participant whenever such participant would attempt to make valid arguments. Finally, in the complaint CJP had urged the NBDSA to remove the show from all digital platforms and tender a public apology for their misinformed reportage.

Related:

CJP moves NBDSA against News18’s fake story on bombing in Bengal School

CJP Impact: NBDSA directs Zee News to take down video of communal show on Population Control

NBSA acts on CJP’s complaint against Zee News report on ‘Zameen Jihad’

The post NBDSA acts on CJP’s complaint, directs News18 to take down fake news video about bombing in WB school appeared first on SabrangIndia.

CJP has written to News18 India against the communal contents of its debate show ‘Desh nahi jhukne denge – हिंदुओं के ख़िलाफ़ महागठबंधन?’ (Will not let the country bow – Grand Alliance against Hindus?) anchored by Aman Chopra that aired on News18 India on January 18, 2022.

The complaint begins by mentioning that the show was communally divisive throughout its narrative and did not try to mask this in any manner. The show was flagged off by the host with a communally polarising question: Hinduon ke khilaf Uttar Pradesh me Mahagathbandhan tayyar ho raha hai, aur jab 80 vs. 20 ki baat ki thi Yogi Adityanath ne toh wo sahi thi? (A grand alliance is being formed in Uttar Pradesh against Hindus, and was Yogi Adityanath right when he said it is now 80 vs. 20?)

Some extracts from the show are mainly comments made by Chopra,  the host of the show, which clearly make his political affiliations visible. His comments like “Ye 80 k khilaf hai mahagathbandhan” (This grand alliance is against the 80) or “Yogi ji ke rehte danga nahi kar paa rahe ye dard hai aapka?” (You could not commit riots during Yogi’s term, are you feeling hurt because of that?) have become a matter of contention.

The show kept displaying inflammatory text throughout its duration such as:

“15% Muslim 85% Hindu par bhari” (15% Muslims overshadow 85% Hindus)

“Jab Yogi Modi chale jayenge, tumhe kaun bachayega?” (When Yogi-Modi leave, who will save you?)

“Hinduon ke khilaf sab mil gaye hai?” (Everyone has colluded against the Hindus?)

The complaint states, the host Aman Chopra, was keen on leading the debate with the question of whether the Congress party and its alliance was meant to be against the Hindus of the state of UP. He repeatedly used the term “80 vs. 20” throughout the show pitting Hindus voters against Muslim voters of the state. As the anchor of show on a news channel, that is supposed to have a neutral and unbiased theme, the host did not even attempt to have any non-communal theme on the show.

The complaint highlights that the show violates the many guidelines issued by the News Broadcasting Digital and Standards Authority (NBDSA) as also its Code of Ethics.

The complaint may be read here:

Related:

Hate Hatao: CJP doubled its efforts to check hate crimes in 2021
CJP writes to Zee News over their Population Politics show
CJP moves NBSA over Zee’s ‘Vaccine Jihad’ show
CJP approaches NBSA against Zee’s Population Control show

The post CJP complaints to News18 about its “80 vs 20” communal debate show appeared first on SabrangIndia.