NBDSA Directs News 18 India, Rubika Liyaquat to Edit Broadcast Alleging Guilt of Arvind Kejriwal in Liquor Scam

The News Broadcasting Digital Standards Authority (NBDSA), chaired by retired Supreme Court Justice AK Sikri, has directed News 18 India to remove a contentious portion of its broadcast that allegedly violated journalistic ethics. The broadcast, hosted by anchor Rubika Liyaquat on her show Goonj, attributed guilt to former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in an ongoing excise case, a matter that is sub judice.

Key Details of the Complaint

• The show in question was aired on March 28, 2024, during the elections, and discussed Kejriwal’s arrest in connection with the alleged liquor scam.
• Complainant Indrajeet Ghorpade claimed the broadcast violated principles of impartiality, neutrality, and fairness under the Code of Ethics and Broadcasting Standards and related guidelines.
• He alleged that the anchor repeatedly implied guilt by stating phrases such as:
  • "Aapki khaal uttar jayengi?"
  • "Agar aapne corruption nahi kara hota toh aapke against itne bade charges frame nahi hote."
• Ghorpade also argued that the anchor’s tone and remarks stifled freedom of speech by aggressively defending the Prime Minister and undermining panelists who criticized him.

NBDSA’s Observations

After reviewing the footage, the NBDSA concluded that:

• While defending the Prime Minister is acceptable, the anchor’s attribution of guilt to Kejriwal in a case under judicial consideration violated ethical standards.
• The broadcast breached Specific Guidelines for Reporting Court Proceedings and the principles of neutralityenshrined in the Code of Ethics.
• It also contravened judicial mandates, particularly the Bombay High Court’s judgment in Nilesh Navlakha & Anr. vs UOI & Ors (2021 SCC Online BOM 56).

Recommendations and Directions

• NBDSA emphasized the need for anchors to exercise professional restraint and maintain a balanced tone during debates.
• The authority directed the broadcaster to:
  • Edit the contentious portion of the broadcast within seven days.
  • Ensure future programs adhere to ethical guidelines and judicial mandates.
• The complaint was closed with these observations, and both the complainant and broadcaster were informed accordingly.

Broadcaster’s Defense

News 18 India denied the allegation that the broadcast attributed guilt to Kejriwal. They contended:

• The anchor merely questioned panelists using provocative language for debate engagement.
• The anchor had urged panelists to speak about the Prime Minister respectfully and to approach courts for concerns regarding corruption.
• They argued the anchor’s statements, such as "If you hadn’t done corruption…", were presented as questions, not accusations.

Case Title: Indrajeet Ghorpade vs. Kshipra Jatana Compliance Officer, NBDSA Network18 Media & Investments Limited

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