Mumbai: The News Broadcasting & Digital Standards Authority (NBDSA), has taken cognizance of three debate shows aired by Times Now channel on Teesta Setalvad. This was based on a complaint dated 1 July, 2022 filed by Citizens for Justice and Peace, which mentioned about three debate shows aired on Times Now channel on 25, 27 and 28 June 2022, titled “Teesta Setalvad arrested by Gujarat Crime branch; Plot nailed; plotters next?”; “Was Teesta’s NGO given money? Did Congress plotted (sic) conspiracy against Modi?”; and “Teesta Setalvad exposed; Rules bent to grant funds, proof of Congress patronage uncovered”.
The complainant stated that the tone, tenor and choice of words spoken as well as displayed on the screen during the impugned shows, suggested that the intention of the programmes was to project journalist and human rights defender Setalvad as someone unworthy of trust or compassion. The complainant maintained that it believed that the impugned broadcasts had violated the principles of impartiality, objectivity and neutrality enshrined under the Code of Ethics & Broadcasting Standards and Guidelines.
Meanwhile, in its written submissions dated 2 September 2022, Times Now denied and disputed all allegations/ contentions/ averments made by the complainant in the subject. Times Now further stated, “That there was no violation of any Code of Ethics, regulations of NBDSA/ NBDA in the impugned broadcasts as the said news coverages did not impede any individual’s right and the public has the right to know. Investigative journalism was carried out and only pertinent and contextual questions were posted on the debate to bring out all aspects of the situation. Pertinently, no opinion was formulated by the channel, or its reporters and these questions were neither leading nor accusatory as alleged.”
After considering the application seeking condonation of delay filed by the complainant and the response received thereof from the broadcaster. NBDSA decided to call both parties for a hearing. After considering the complaint, response of the broadcaster and also giving due consideration to the arguments of the complainant and the broadcaster and viewing the footage of the broadcasts, NBDSA noted that the broadcaster had during the impugned broadcasts sought the views of several persons and the allegations made in respect of Setalvad.
