MIB issues format of security clearance for TV channels

[Dinesh jain]

The Ministry of Information and
Broadcasting (MIB) has set the format of
security clearance for new TV channels as well
as those seeking fresh security clearances
before renewal of permission for next 10 years.

The Ministry has mentioned the format in which
applications should be sent by news and non-
news television channels seeking security
clearance to uplink or downlink news/non-news
and current affairs TV channels.

The companies owning TV channels will now
have to furnish the details of the company and
its Board of Directors (in four additional sets),
giving details of the company/firm for whom
clearance is sought. The applications have to be
sent to Ministry within 15 days.

Details required as per the format are names of
firms/bidders, address of the registered office
and date of incorporation.
MIB has also sought details of the directors /key
executives including, name/parentage, date of
birth, present position held and complete address.

in October
last year, the issue came up when MIB asked
the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on the expiry
date of the security clearance given to
broadcasting companies.
The MHA had replied that the validity was only
for three years. The broadcasters raised concern
and the News Broadcasters Association (NBA)
made a representation to MIB urging it to
reconsider the decision.

The NBA said that the limiting of validity of
security clearance will be detrimental to the
business of broadcasters. The Ministry then
wrote to the MHA suggesting that the security
clearance should be made valid for the entire
duration of the licence, which is 10 years.

MIB issues format of security clearance for TV channels | TelevisionPost.com