Digital News Publishers Code of Ethics

Digital News Publishers Association: Code of Ethics Summary

1. Constitutional References:

• Emphasizes adherence to Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution of India, safeguarding the freedom of speech and expression in the context of digital news publishing.

2. Legal Framework:

• Compliance with over 30 media-related laws, such as the Information Technology Act, 2000, the Indian Penal Code (IPC), and the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC).

3. Self-Regulatory Ethics:

• Establishes high standards, ethics, and practices for digital news publishing while ensuring editorial and content independence.

4. Key Precepts of the Code:

• Accuracy, Transparency & Fairness:
  • Mandatory pre-publication verification to avoid publishing inaccurate or distorted content.
• Right of Reply:
  • Obligation to include comments from individuals or parties mentioned in reports, and update articles with new developments upon request.
• Correction Procedures:
  • Protocol for editing or deleting content found to be false or inaccurate, with acknowledgment of the correct information.
• Intellectual Property Rights:
  • Respect for copyright and permissions for use of third-party materials.
• Sensitive Reporting Guidelines:
  • Careful reporting on matters of crime, sexual harassment, and communal disputes, including the presumption of innocence and avoiding sensationalism.

5. Legal Compliance in Specific Cases:

• Adherence to IT Act Sections 67, 67A, and 67B regarding the publication of obscene and sexually explicit material.

6. Grievance Redressal Mechanism:

• Following the grievance procedures outlined by the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines) Rules, 2011, including the appointment of grievance officers for timely complaint resolution.

7. Training and Awareness:

• Regular training programs for editorial staff on relevant laws, including but not limited to:
  • The Indecent Representation of Women (Prohibition) Act
  • Right to Information Act
  • Juvenile Justice and POCSO Act
  • Procedures for reporting sensitive issues without violating privacy rights.

8. Reporting Practices:

• Special care required in reporting on:
  • Sexual harassment, child abuse, communal or religious disputes.
  • Respect victims' identities and ensure confidentiality in cases involving minors or sensitive legal matters.

9. Communal Harmony:

• Ensures reporting maintains communal harmony and presents information with due caution to avoid inciting communal strife.

This Code aims to establish responsible digital news publishing while ensuring journalistic independence and ethical conduct.