The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) on Tuesday reminded private satellite TV channels against indulging in surrogate advertisements of prohibited products after receiving multiple complaints spread across a period of time.
The Ministry has sent out the circular to News Broadcasters Association, Indian Broadcasting Foundation, and The Advertising Standards Council of India stating that it had received references from time to time about the surrogate advertisements of prohibited products on private satellite TV channels.
The advertising code enshrined in the Cable Television Network Rules, 1994 prohibits direct or indirect advertisements of cigarettes, tobacco products, wine, alcohol, liquor or other intoxicants. The same however allows advertisements of genuine products sharing brand name or logo of such products. The rule allows advertising of genuine brands while discouraging surrogate advertisements.
The Ministry has advised that all advertisements of such nature be previewed and certified by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) before being telecast on television.
