Digital Media on Notice: Ministry of Information and Broadcasting Takes Aim at Promotion of Electronic Cigarettes

Media organizations have a responsibility to provide accurate and unbiased information to the public. They should not promote products or activities that are harmful to the public, especially when it comes to topics that can have a significant impact on people's health and well-being.

The Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act, 2019, explicitly prohibits advertisements that directly or indirectly promote the use of electronic cigarettes. Media entities are urged to ensure compliance with this legislation. This includes refraining from featuring advertisements, promotions, or any other form of campaigns that encourage the use of electronic cigarettes.

Beyond legal obligations, media houses should adhere to ethical considerations when organizing such events. They have a responsibility to provide accurate and unbiased information, maintain the public's trust, and contribute positively to society. Promoting harmful substances, such as electronic cigarettes, not only undermines public health efforts but also erodes the credibility of the media.

The Ministry's letter serves as a timely reminder for media organizations to abide by existing legal provisions and prioritize responsible promotion during conclaves and summits. Upholding the law and ethical considerations should be non-negotiable for any reputable media house. By doing so, they contribute to a healthier media landscape, protect public health, and maintain the public's trust. It is through such collective efforts that media organizations can fulfill their crucial role in society while upholding their ethical responsibilities.

Here are some additional thoughts on the importance of media organizations complying with the law and ethical considerations when organizing conclaves and summits:

• Media organizations have a responsibility to provide accurate and unbiased information to the public. This is especially important when it comes to topics that can have a significant impact on people's health and well-being.
• Media organizations should not promote products or activities that are harmful to the public. This includes electronic cigarettes, which are known to be addictive and can contain harmful chemicals.
• Media organizations should collaborate with regulatory bodies to ensure that they are complying with the law and ethical standards. This will help to protect the public and maintain the credibility of the media.
• Media organizations should be aware of the potential for their platforms to be used to promote harmful products or activities. They should take steps to mitigate this risk, such as by screening speakers and sponsors before inviting them to participate in events.
• Media organizations should be transparent about their funding sources. This will help to ensure that the public is aware of any potential conflicts of interest.
• Media organizations should be accountable to the public. They should have mechanisms in place for receiving and responding to feedback from viewers and listeners.

By following these guidelines, media organizations can help to ensure that they are using their platforms responsibly and in the public interest.

Here are some specific examples of how media organizations can comply with the law and ethical considerations when organizing conclaves and summits:

• A media organization could require speakers to disclose any financial interests they have in the products or activities that they will be discussing.
• A media organization could provide viewers and listeners with information about the potential risks of electronic cigarettes and other harmful products.
• A media organization could create a code of conduct for sponsors that prohibits them from promoting harmful products or activities.

By taking these steps, media organizations can help to protect the public and uphold their ethical responsibilities.

#mediaethics #responsiblepromotion #electroniccigarettes #publichealth #mediaresponsibility #transparency #digitalmedia #journalism #journalist Rahul Ojha