Introduction – Upholding The Conscience Of Indian Journalism
The Press Council of India (PCI), the statutory watchdog for the press in India, plays a critical role in safeguarding both the freedom of the press and the maintenance of high professional standards. The Press Council of India’s Norms of Journalistic Conduct (2019 Edition) serves as a comprehensive ethical and practical guidebook, articulating clear expectations for journalists and media organizations nationwide. This document is far more than a set of rules; it is the ethical compass for Indian journalism, drawing the fine line between press freedom and journalistic responsibility.
The Norms are meticulously structured to cover the core principles of ethical reporting (Part A), provide specific guidelines for sensitive issues (Part B), summarize the legal framework governing the press (Part C), detail the PCI’s operational procedures (Part D), and advocate for best practices (Part E). An overview of these norms reveals a strong emphasis on accuracy, fairness, social responsibility, and the crucial need for the media to avoid content that may incite communal disharmony, prejudice judicial processes, or compromise national security. Ultimately, this framework seeks to ensure that the press remains a credible, ethical, and positive force in India’s democratic landscape.
Part A: Principles And Ethics
Accuracy And Fairness
- Avoid publishing inaccurate, misleading, or distorted material.
- Report all sides of an issue; avoid unjustified rumours.
- Back allegations with irrefutable facts and evidence.
- Clarify when reporting based on FIRs; include affected party’s version.
- Avoid sensational headlines from unverified studies.
- Ensure historical accuracy and correct attribution.
Advertisements
- Clearly distinguish ads from editorial content.
- Reject ads promoting intoxicants or offensive content.
- Avoid ads that hurt religious sentiments or violate laws.
- Editors must vet ads for legality, decency, and ethics.
- Disclose advertiser identity and payment details.
- Avoid publishing suggestive or misleading ads (e.g., tele-friendship, health services).
- Include caution notices in matrimonial ads.
- Do not publish ads for unborn child adoption or kidney donations.
Astrological Predictions
Avoid promoting superstition; encourage scientific temper.
“The PCI advises general-interest publications to exercise restraint in publishing horoscopes; while not prohibited, such content should avoid promoting superstition.”
Caste, Religion, Community References
- Avoid caste/community identification unless contextually relevant.
- Use “Scheduled Caste” instead of “Harijan”.
- Do not distort religious figures or exploit religious symbols.
- Maintain communal harmony; avoid inflammatory content.
- Refrain from using terms like “Dalit” in a provocative manner. While “Dalit” is discouraged in provocative contexts, the PCI does not universally ban its use. However, it should be used with sensitivity and contextual relevance.
Defamatory Writings
- Publish only after verification and in public interest.
- Avoid personal attacks, especially on deceased individuals.
- Do not rely on past behaviour to malign someone.
- Satire and parody do not justify defamation.
- Ensure fair comment and avoid sensationalism.
- Respect the distinction between public interest and gossip.
Criticising Judicial Acts
- Avoid prejudicing judicial proceedings or publishing running commentary.
- Do not comment on confessions or evidence post-arrest.
- Criticism of judgments must be fair and in public interest.
- Avoid imputing bias or motives to judges.
Part B: Guidelines On Specific Issues
Communal Disturbances (1969)
- Avoid inflaming communal tensions.
- Refrain from speculative or provocative reporting.
- Verify facts before publication; avoid naming communities unless essential.
Coverage Of Militants/Terrorists (1991–1992)
- Do not glorify or legitimize extremist ideologies.
- Avoid publishing handouts or statements without scrutiny.
- Maintain national security and public order as paramount.
HIV/AIDS And The Media
- Avoid stigmatizing language or imagery.
- Promote awareness and scientific understanding.
- Respect privacy and dignity of affected individuals.
Financial Journalism
- Ensure accuracy and transparency in financial reporting.
- Avoid speculative or misleading investment advice.
- Disclose conflicts of interest.
Election Reporting
- Maintain neutrality and fairness.
- Avoid paid news or disguised political advertising.
- Respect the Model Code of Conduct.
Allotment Of Houses To Journalists
- Avoid undue influence or favouritism.
- Maintain transparency in reporting on such benefits.
Undue Favours To Journalists
- Journalists must not accept gifts or benefits that compromise integrity.
- Disclosure of any such offers is encouraged.
Right To Privacy – Public Figures
- Balance public interest with individual privacy.
- Avoid intrusive or sensational coverage.
Overseas Advertisements (Emigration Act, 1983)
- Ensure compliance with legal norms.
- Avoid misleading job offers or exploitative content.
Working Journalist Act – Contract Appointments
- Highlight discrepancies in employment practices.
- Advocate for fair labor standards.
Guidelines For Protection Of Child Rights
- Avoid revealing identity of minor victims/children in conflict with law/witnesses.
- Use sensitive language and imagery.
- Prioritize child welfare over sensationalism.
Model Accreditation/Advertisement Rules (2014)
- Promote transparency in media accreditation.
- Ensure ethical standards in government advertising.
Model Advertisement Policy Guide (2014)
- Avoid political bias or misuse of public funds.
- Ensure equitable access to advertising space.
Media In Jammu & Kashmir
- Encourage responsible reporting in conflict zones.
- Avoid inflammatory or biased narratives.
Reporting On Mental Health Patients
- Use respectful language.
- Avoid stereotypes or stigmatization.
- Don’t reveal identity of mental health patients.
Reporting On Suicide
- Avoid sensationalism or graphic details.
- Follow WHO guidelines for responsible coverage.
AYUSH Advertisements
- Ensure scientific validity and legal compliance.
- Avoid exaggerated or unverified claims.
Part C: Laws Related To Press
Summarizes key statutes governing press freedom and responsibilities. Includes the Press and Registration of Books Act, Official Secrets Act, and others.
Part D: Press Council’s Powers, Practices, Procedures
Details the Council’s authority to adjudicate complaints and outlines procedures for inquiry, hearings, and enforcement.
Part E: Good Practices In Journalism
Emphasizes ethical storytelling, fact-checking, and accountability. Encourages inclusive, pluralistic, and socially responsible journalism.
Conclusion: A Continuous Mandate For Ethical Practice
The Press Council of India’s Norms of Journalistic Conduct (2019 Edition) stands as an indispensable charter for self-regulation, representing the collective conscience of the Indian press. Its detailed provisions, ranging from the fundamental tenets of Accuracy and Fairness to nuanced guidelines on Communal Disturbances, Reporting on Suicide, and Financial Journalism, demonstrate an awareness of the complex challenges faced by contemporary media.
By clearly distinguishing editorial content from advertisements, protecting the identity of child rights victims, and requiring disclosure of conflicts of interest, the Norms aim to fortify public trust and media integrity. Furthermore, by outlining the PCI’s powers and procedures, the document provides an accessible mechanism for accountability. While not legally binding in the manner of statutes, adherence to these norms is a continuous, moral, and professional imperative.
The effective implementation of the 2019 Norms is essential for ensuring that the Indian press upholds its democratic duty, fosters a scientific temper, promotes social harmony, and serves the public interest with unwavering responsibility and ethical rigour.
