How are the TV ads regulated?
7 Dec, 2011The Appellant sought detailed information about TV advertisements through several questions – the Act under which the TV ads are covered; the ratings prescribed by Ministry of Information & Broadcasting; the fee structure for certification of TV ads; the procedure of TV ads launching or broadcasting on TV Channel; whether any addition/deletion be made after certification; and the procedure to complain against false, misleading & offensive advertising. Not satisfied with the reply of the PIO, an appeal was file before the FAA who directed the PIO to provide full and complete information to the appellant. As the Appellant was not satisfied with information subsequently to him by the PIO, he filed a second appeal before CIC.
View of the CIC
The Commission observed that the PIO has given the information as available on the records. Regards some queries, the Commission accepted the contention of the PIO that these activities are not carried out by the department and hence the information on these points cannot be provided. The Appellant gave suggestions as to how the government should regulate TV Ads.
Comments
The order gives an impression that the appellant, like many other citizens, is tired of misleading TV advertisement but is perhaps not aware as to what route he should follow. The PIO should have transferred the part of the application under section 6(3) to the regulatory authority for providing further information.
Citation: Mr. Sanjay Ramesh Shirodkar v. Ministry of Information & Broadcasting in Decision No. CIC/SG/A/2011/002594/16072