Patna: In response to rising tensions between India and Pakistan, the Web Journalists Association of India (WJAI) has strongly urged web journalists and digital media publishers to abide by the central government’s advisory on responsible reporting.
WJAI national president Anand Kaushal welcomed the Indian Army’s recent operations and backed the Union government’s guidelines aimed at curbing misinformation and safeguarding national interests. The advisory, issued jointly by the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, directs media outlets to avoid sharing unverified or sensitive information—particularly any details regarding military movements or strategic operations.
Kaushal appealed to members of the association and the wider web journalism community to avoid publishing or circulating news that could endanger India’s sovereignty, compromise national security, or strain diplomatic relations. “Our nation has always advocated for peace and non-violence,” he said, recalling the Pahalgam terrorist attack that claimed the lives of innocent civilians.
Commending the Indian Army’s retaliatory action under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Kaushal said, “Our forces have shown extraordinary courage by destroying terrorist bases across the border. A nervous Pakistan has now intensified conflict, but our Army continues to assert India’s strength.”
He further stressed the critical role of digital media in shaping public perception during times of conflict. “Web journalists must exercise utmost caution. It is our responsibility to counter disinformation campaigns and prevent the spread of rumours. Fact-checking is non-negotiable,” Kaushal stated.
The government has also instructed all OTT platforms and streaming services to suspend content originating from Pakistan, including films, series, songs, and podcasts.
Kaushal concluded by saying that WJAI remains committed to promoting responsible journalism and national unity. “During such sensitive times, our words can either protect or provoke. We choose to protect,” he said.
