Govt asks private FM radio channels to check vulgar content

NEW DELHI: The Information and Broadcasting Ministry has taken umbrage at the manner in which some private FM channels broadcast ?vulgar and objectionable content?.

The Ministry has also noted that some radio jockeys are ‘indecent and offensive‘ in their presentation of programmes. These jockeys made ‘defamatory and derogatory comments, particularly in night hours, which do not appear to be in good taste?.

Reiterating that the FM channels are duty bound under the Grant of Permission Agreement (GOPA) to follow the Programme and Advertising Codes being followed by All India Radio, the Ministry advised all channels to strictly adhere to these Codes and not air anything in violation of the Codes.

It said that violation can constitute violation of Sections 7.6 and 11.2 of GOPA, and the channels have been asked to exercise discretion and restraint, as any violation can attract penal action as laid down in the GOPA.