NBDSA Directs News18 to Remove Broadcast Falsely Linking Tirupati Laddu Dispute to Congress

The News Broadcasting and Digital Standards Authority (NBDSA) has instructed News18 Rajasthan to take down a video that falsely alleged a connection between the use of beef fat in Tirupati laddus and the Congress party. The NBDSA emphasized the importance of adhering to journalistic standards and guidelines in reporting.

In its ruling, the NBDSA highlighted that broadcasters must follow the Specific Guidelines for Reportage, which state that “facts should be clearly distinguishable from, and not be mixed up with, opinion, analysis, and comment” when covering any subject. The authority also advised News18 to keep in mind the Specific Guidelines for Anchors conducting programs, particularly when inviting guests for interviews or debates.

The controversial program aired on September 21, 2024, and drew criticism for spreading unverified claims. The complainant, Indrajeet Ghorpade, accused the broadcaster of violating principles of accuracy, objectivity, neutrality, and fairness by alleging that the presence of animal fat in the Tirupati Balaji temple’s prasadam (laddus) was part of a Congress party conspiracy. Ghorpade demanded the immediate removal of the broadcast and a public clarification.

Upon reviewing the footage, the NBDSA identified discrepancies in the reporting and found the claims to be unsubstantiated. The authority directed News18 to remove the video and reminded the channel of its responsibility to ensure factual accuracy and impartiality in its broadcasts.

This decision underscores the importance of maintaining ethical standards in journalism and avoiding the dissemination of misinformation, particularly on sensitive topics that could incite public discord. The NBDSA’s intervention serves as a reminder to media outlets to exercise due diligence in verifying facts before presenting them to the public.