Photo Source: ANI/Representative Image
Respect privacy of Armed forces personnel, families: Defence Ministry urges media
Ravi Jakhu
New Delhi, June 3, 2025: The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has issued an official advisory to all media organizations, urging them to respect the privacy and dignity of Indian Armed Forces personnel and their families, particularly during ongoing operations such as Operation Sindoor.
While appreciating the media's continued interest in covering the Armed Forces’ activities, achievements, and sacrifices, the Ministry emphasized that recent coverage has, in some cases, crossed into personal domains.
Reports indicate that media personnel have approached the private residences of senior officers and attempted to contact their families—actions the Ministry describes as "deeply inappropriate" and a potential risk to both dignity and safety.
The advisory highlights that while officers may hold public-facing roles, their families are private citizens and must be treated with due respect. It outlines specific guidelines for the media:
- No personal visits or contact: Media should not visit or reach out to the homes or families of serving or retired officers unless officially cleared.
- No personal information disclosure: Media must avoid publishing private details, including addresses and photographs of family members.
- Professional focus only: Coverage should remain centered on the operational and leadership aspects of Armed Forces personnel, avoiding speculation or intrusion into private lives.
- Confidentiality and national interest: Especially during active operations, media must respect operational confidentiality and national security concerns.
The Ministry reiterated its commitment to constructive media engagement but called on all journalists and media outlets to uphold responsible standards. The advisory was issued with the approval of the competent authority.