New Delhi: The News Broadcasters Federation (NBF) has welcomed a recent Delhi High Court decision directing the restoration of TV9 Telugu, Saakshi TV, 10TV, NTV, and other news channels that had been blacked out in Andhra Pradesh since June 6, 2024. The court’s order, addressing complaints of an illegal and unilateral blackout by about 15 multi-system operators, is seen as a significant step in safeguarding press freedom and the right to information.
The blackout, which coincided with the day of election results, had affected millions of viewers in Andhra Pradesh, raising concerns about potential political pressure influencing the media landscape. Andhra Pradesh, with over 6.5 million households relying on set-top boxes for news, witnessed a major disruption as at least 6.2 million boxes were cut off from these channels. The interruption was seen as a serious infringement on the public’s right to access diverse viewpoints and timely information.
In its statement, the NBF highlighted the Delhi High Court’s ruling as a “landmark order” that reinforces the fundamental principles of freedom of speech and expression. “The court’s decision underscores the necessity of an open and transparent media environment, which is vital for the functioning of a healthy democracy,” the statement read.
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TV9, one of the affected channels, argued in court that the disconnection was illegal and violated the interconnection agreements established under the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) guidelines. The court’s directive mandates the immediate restoration of these channels, ensuring the residents of Andhra Pradesh can once again access comprehensive news coverage.
The NBF has called upon all relevant authorities to promptly comply with the court’s directive, emphasizing the importance of this ruling in setting a precedent for upholding press freedom and protecting journalists’ rights across the country. The federation praised the Delhi High Court for its dedication to defending constitutional rights and promoting a free and independent media environment.
This decision is hailed as a victory for democracy and a testament to the crucial role of judicial oversight in preserving fundamental freedoms. The NBF reiterated its commitment to advocating for journalists’ rights and the unimpeded flow of information, urging government and regulatory bodies to take proactive steps to prevent future blackouts and ensure media channels operate without undue interference.
