Keeping in view the sensitivities involved in Maha Kumbh Mela, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has advised the media to exercise a high degree of responsibility and restraint while covering the Sadhus, women pilgrims and various religious events.
It also advised that no “frivolous, derogatory or irresponsible” remarks are made, which can hurt the sentiments of people and devotees at large resulting in untoward situations.
The event is scheduled from January 14 to April 14, 2010. A statement issued by the Ministry here on Monday said: It may be helpful to all to work out a self regulating code for the journalists, camerapersons and reporters who cover the event. In the past, there has been criticism of the reports, visuals and photographs relating to devotees, particularly Naga Sadhus, who come in large numbers to participate in various rituals at Kumbh Mela.
There has also been some criticism of the insensitive portrayal of women during rituals. This kind of portrayal has sometimes even created law and order problems for the kumbh mela administration, the statement said.
A skewed version of reports and visuals without giving due respect to religious sensitivities has sometimes been presented before foreign audiences, which is not desirable, the statement added.
