NEW DELHI: The Indian government is exploring whether a mechanism could be set in place whereby television programmes too can be classified under different ratings as films give out advisory on viewing.
This move is being explored as part of a content regulatory framework that the government proposes to put up in place in deference to complaints received on indifferent and vulgar software being put out by TV channels and also with a view to bring in some sort of semblance in a chaotic industry where there are no laid down rules.
Though it's early to say whether such a regime would lead to further liberalisation or not, the government, as part of an advisory sent out to various channels, has asked for feedback on the need to change the existing programming and advertising code also.
Next week, the information and broadcasting ministry is slated to hold a round of discussions with various stakeholders of the broadcast and cable industry, including non-governmental organisations and consumer bodies, on the issue of content regulation.
Amongst the topics for discussion that have been listed are norms of decency during coverage of events and incidents, to what level privacy of individuals should be maintained, whether programming and advertising codes need to be re-visited, whether TV programming likes serials too should be rated for viewing (U, UA or A).
In connection with ratings of TV programming, another topic for discussion is whether trailers for movies and music videos get censor certificates and ratings and should these be adhered to strictly or not.
A Delhi-based media critic, on being asked about the feasibility of rating TV programmes said, "If the film ratings are strictly enforced for TV, quite a few popular Hindi soaps are likely to end up getting ratings of UA (parental guidance needed for viewing) or A (strictly for adults). And, some programmes on English channels may permanently get an A certificate."
Inconsistent policies and regulatory framework have hampered the Indian market's potential development. According to a report prepared by the Hong Kong-based Media Partners Asia, "India's broadband cable and satellite TV industry, a $2.7 billion revenue opportunity in 2004, is in a state of flux as uncertainties surrounding market regulation and competition in the delivery of video services cloud visibility over the potential of one of Asia's most attractive consumer blocks."
