Hyderabad TV channels asked not to show visuals of violence

Hyderabad police have asked all cable television channels in the city not to show visuals of violence in Bengaluru as it could lead to disturbances.

The police issued the advisory to all cable TV channels/network operators in view of the ongoing Eid-ul-Adha and Ganesh festival.

Police Commissioner Mahender Reddy urged the managements of all channels to adhere to the programme code for maintenance of public order and peace.

"As per the code under the Cable TV Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995, no programme shall be transmitted/retransmitted in the cable service which is likely to encourage or incite violence, or contains anything against maintenance of law and order," the notice issued by Reddy read.

"The concerned managements are liable for prosecution for Violation of Programme Code under section 16 of the said Act. The concerned channels violating the Programme Code are liable to be prohibited from transmission in public interest under section 19 of the said Act," it added.

The advisory was issued after channels showed visuals of violence in Bengaluru, which claimed one life on Monday.

It comes amid heightened security in view of the two festivals. While the three-day Eid celebrations began on Tuesday, the Ganesh festivities will conclude on Thursday with a mammoth procession.

Over 20,000 policemen have been deployed as part of the massive security arrangements for the festivals.

Police on Monday took out a march in the communally sensitive old city of Hyderabad to instil confidence among people.

Police have appealed to people not to believe rumours being spread through social media.

--IANS

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