Code of Ethics for Digital News Websites

Introduction

The purpose of this Code of Ethics is to maintain the highest standards of digital journalism and protect the independence of journalists, content creators, and publishers.

This Code draws inspiration from the Digital News Publishers Association (DNPA) and the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, thereby ensuring responsible, fair, and transparent digital publishing while safeguarding the freedom of speech and expression guaranteed under Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution of India.

This Code is intended to guide ethical practices in digital journalism and does not interfere with the editorial independence of publishers.

1. Adherence to Laws

Digital news websites shall comply with all applicable laws of India, including:

• The Constitution of India,

• Over 30 media-related laws and relevant provisions of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC),

• The Information Technology Act, 2000, and

• The Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021.

2. Journalistic Standards

All content published shall adhere to the highest standards of journalistic ethics, including:

• Accuracy, fairness, and objectivity,

• Respect for truth and avoidance of sensationalism,

• Transparent correction and accountability practices, and

• Independence from undue influence, political or commercial.

3. Accuracy, Transparency & Fairness

1. Publishers shall avoid publication of inaccurate, baseless, or distorted material.

2. Pre-publication verification is mandatory.

3. Defamatory or misleading content shall be strictly avoided.

4. Updates or corrections to news stories shall be clearly dated and acknowledged.

4. Right of Reply

1. Individuals or organizations mentioned adversely in any report shall be given the right to reply.

2. Such responses shall be published promptly and with the same prominence as the original report.

3. Any subsequent developments or corrections must be reflected in updated versions of the article.

5. Takedown, Deletion, or Correction

If any report or article is found to contain false or inaccurate information, and a concerned person or party provides evidence of such inaccuracy:

• The erroneous content shall be edited, corrected, or deleted promptly.

• If the entire article is inaccurate, it shall be removed in full.

• The updated or corrected content must mention the date and reason for modification.

6. Respect for Intellectual Property Rights

1. Copyrights in text, photographs, graphics, or other creative content must be respected.

2. Use of third-party material requires prior permission and proper attribution.

3. Trademarked or branded content shall not be used without authorization, unless it qualifies as fair use.

4. On receiving a valid notice of infringement, the content shall be reviewed and, if necessary, removed or modified.

7. Sensitive Reporting

1. Exercise restraint and sensitivity while reporting on crimes, sexual offences, communal issues, or sensitive social matters.

2. Preserve the presumption of innocence.

3. Avoid sensationalism, speculation, or victim identification.

4. Respect privacy, especially for individuals not in public life.

5. Strict adherence to Sections 67, 67A, 67B of the IT Act 2000 concerning obscene or sexually explicit content.

8. Reporting on Special Categories

Special caution must be exercised in coverage of:

• Sexual harassment and workplace abuse,

• Child abuse and cases involving minors,

• Matrimonial, custody, adoption, or family disputes,

• Riots or communal disturbances,

• Judicial and court proceedings, ensuring factual accuracy and neutrality.

9. Grievance Redressal Mechanism

In compliance with Rule 11 of the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, this portal shall implement a three-tier grievance redressal mechanism:

Level I – Self-Regulation by the Publisher

• A Grievance Officer is appointed to receive and address complaints relating to published content.

• The Grievance Officer shall:

  • Acknowledge complaints within 36 hours of receipt.

  • Resolve and communicate action taken within 15–30 days.

  • Maintain records of complaints and their disposal.

Grievance Officer Details:

Name: Jitendra Yadav
Email: info@janatasamachar.in
Address: 64A, New Sriram Vihar, Mansarovar, Jaipur 302020, Rajasthan, India
Phone: +919799991188

Level II – Self-Regulating Body

• In case the complainant is not satisfied with the Level I response, the complaint may be escalated to a self-regulating body registered with the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting (MIB).

Level III – Oversight Mechanism

• If still unresolved, the matter may be referred to the MIB Oversight Mechanism for appropriate action under the Digital Media Ethics Code.

10. Training & Awareness

Editorial and content teams shall periodically undergo training on:

• Media laws, constitutional provisions, and journalistic ethics,

• The IT Act, Copyright Act, Indecent Representation of Women (Prohibition) Act, RTI Act, POCSO Act, etc.,

• Handling of sensitive content, privacy, and online harassment,

• Ethical use of AI tools and digital content verification.

11. Commitment to Ethical Journalism

The organization reaffirms its commitment to the principles of:

• Truth, transparency, and accountability,

• Responsible use of digital media,

• Respect for privacy, dignity, and diversity,

• Upholding the integrity and independence of journalism in India.