Ethics in Digital News Publishing

Digital News Publishers Association: Code of Ethics

Purpose and Framework:

• Voluntary Code of Ethics aimed at responsible digital publishing.
• Ensures editorial independence while protecting constitutional freedoms (e.g., Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution of India).

Legal and Ethical Compliance:

1. Adherence to Laws: Members must comply with over 30 laws related to media, Indian Penal Code (IPC), Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC), and the Information Technology Act, 2000.
2. Journalistic Standards: Commitment to high professional conduct and accepted norms, emphasizing accuracy, transparency, and fairness.
3. Pre-Publication Verification: Mandatory accuracy checks before publication to avoid defamation and misinformation.

Right of Reply:

• Articles must include comments from parties involved in allegations.
• Obligated to update articles with new developments, ensuring transparency.

Content Integrity:

• Mechanism to edit, delete, or retract news articles found to contain inaccuracies upon request by affected parties.

Intellectual Property Rights:

• Respect for copyright, requiring permissions for use of copyrighted materials, and actions against infringement.

Reporting Sensitivity:

• Special care mandated in reporting criminal cases, especially those involving minors or sensitive subjects like sexual harassment, ensuring presumption of innocence and factual reporting.
• Adherence to Sections 67, 67A, and 67B of the Information Technology Act, 2000 regarding the publication of obscene or explicit content.

Grievance Redressal Mechanism:

• Compliance with the grievance redressal provisions outlined in the Information Technology Act 2000.
• Appointment of a grievance officer to address complaints within 36 hours and resolve them within one month.

Training and Awareness:

• Regular training programs for editorial staff covering existing laws pertinent to media, including:
  • The Indecent Representation of Women (Prohibition) Act
  • Copyright Act
  • Right to Information Act
  • Provisions regarding defamation, juvenile justice, and POCSO.
• Strict guidelines on reporting sensitive cases and protecting the identity of victims, particularly in communal or religious disputes.

Judicial Reporting:

• Emphasis on correct reporting in courts, ensuring that all versions are covered without unintended commentary, while maintaining privacy, especially for individuals not in public life.

Summary Points:

• Constitutional Reference: Article 19(1)(a) ensures freedom of speech and expression.
• Mandatory Compliance: Laws such as IPC, CrPC, and IT Act provide a legal framework for operation.
• Ethics: Accuracy and fairness are emphasized through a self-regulatory approach.
• Grievances: Established procedures facilitate accountability and transparency.
• Special Care: Focus on sensitive issues, juveniles, and victims' identities to promote responsible journalism.

This Code exemplifies a commitment to upholding ethical standards in digital journalism while aligning with legal mandates, promoting fairness, and protecting individual rights.