Centre asks FM radio channels not to use objectionable content

The Central Government of India has asked FM radio channels not to air vulgar or objectionable content on their radio programs. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has directed these channels to follow their latest guidelines. They have also warned them that if they fail to follow to do so, appropriate actions will be taken against them. They have also informed that spreading such content is a serious violation of the Grant of Permission Agreement (GOPA). Ministry of Information and Broadcasting in his recent advisory has said: "It has come to notice of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting that vulgar and objectionable content is very often being broadcast on several FM Radio channels. It has also been noticed that the language used by many radio jockeys is indecent, has a dual meaning, and is offensive. They often make defamatory and derogatory comments which do not appear to be in good taste." Airing such content over FM Radio is a violation of clause 7.6 of the Grant of Permission Agreement (GOPA). It further added: "The ministry in exercise of powers flowing from the GOPA hereby advises all FM Radio channels to strictly adhere to the terms and conditions prescribed and not to air any content in violation thereof. All the channels must exercise discretion and restraint in the broadcast of such content. Strict compliance to the above direction should be ensured by all FM radio channels. Any violation shall entail such penal action as deemed fit in accordance with terms and conditions laid down in GOP,”