Superstitious content: TV channel off air for 72 hrs

Tribune News Service

Guwahati, December 15

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has put a satellite TV channel, DY 365, based in Guwahati off air for 72 hours effective from 0001 hour on December 15 to 0001 hour of December 18 for violating provisions of Cable Television Network Rules, 1994.

In its order, the I&B Ministry said: “It has come to the notice of the ministry that “Dy 365” TV channel telecast a ‘news report’ on June 4, 2016, around 3 pm based on a ritual in which a man could be seen tossing a newborn up and down in the air. He hurls and slings the baby in every possible manner and direction without a shred of care and concern. The video was meant to expose an extremely dangerous superstition allegedly prevalent in some parts of Assam where people believe that undergoing this ritual will keep the child safe. The visuals are extremely disturbing and not suitable for unrestricted public exhibition.”

The Ministry through the order served on the Managing Director of DY 365, has prohibited transmission and re-transmission of the channel for three days anywhere across India.