The Press Information Bureau (PIB) clarified on Sunday (September 21, 2025) that Hindi news channels did not receive any notice over Urdu usage. The government called reports in some media outlets “misleading” and emphasized that the action was purely procedural.
In a post on X, the PIB Fact Check Unit explained that the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) forwarded a viewer’s complaint to the concerned channels under the Cable Television Networks Regulation Act. “This is not a directive from the Ministry but simply the forwarding of a complaint,” an official said.
According to the Fact Check Unit, channels must inform the complainant of the action taken and update the Ministry accordingly. This step is part of routine grievance handling under the Act. Each year, a certain percentage of public grievances is forwarded to the relevant parties for necessary action.
Some media reports claimed that MIB had issued notices for excessive Urdu use and directed Hindi channels to hire language experts. However, PIB clarified that these claims are inaccurate. The Ministry has not targeted Hindi news channels in any way.
Moreover, officials stressed that MIB forwards complaints to ensure transparency and accountability in broadcasting. “Forwarding a complaint does not impose any punitive action or restrictions,” one official said. Therefore, channels retain their editorial freedom while following normal grievance procedures.
Furthermore, the government urged media outlets and the public to verify information before publishing or sharing it. PIB emphasized that the Ministry’s action was procedural, not punitive, and aimed at maintaining public trust and proper grievance redressal.
This clarification comes amid growing discussions about language usage in media. By forwarding complaints, MIB ensures complaints reach the right parties efficiently. However, the government remains committed to respecting freedom of expression.
