New Delhi: The Association for Protection of Civil Rights (APCR) has welcomed the order passed by the News Broadcasting & Digital Standards Authority (NBDSA) in the complaint filed by Mr. Talha Mannan against Zee News over its broadcast concerning a student protest at Aligarh Muslim University (AMU). Mr Talha Mannan was represented by Adv Aman Khan, Adv Tarique Alam and Adv Fawaz Shaheen in the proceedings.
The complaint related to Zee News programmes aired on 16 August 2025, which portrayed the AMU student protest and expressions of solidarity with Palestine through inflammatory and prejudicial framing.
After examining the broadcast and submissions made by both sides, NBDSA observed that the coverage went beyond reporting the protest and used language and presentation that criminalised and mischaracterised expressions of solidarity with Palestine. The Authority also noted that the broadcast selectively presented the protest and misrepresented certain slogans, creating an impression that was different from the actual nature and context of the demonstration.
NBDSA consequently imposed a fine of ₹2 lakh on Zee News. It further directed the broadcaster to remove the impugned footage from its website, YouTube, Facebook and other social media platforms within seven days.
APCR said it believes that news organisations have a responsibility to report matters of public interest fairly and in their proper context. A peaceful student protest, political opinion or expression of solidarity cannot be presented as evidence of criminality merely through selective clips, inflammatory headlines or loaded tickers.
The NBDSA order is important because it recognises the harm that such reporting can cause, particularly when an entire university community or a section of students is portrayed through a distorted and prejudicial narrative.
APCR has appreciated Talha Mannan for pursuing the complaint and standing against such irresponsible media coverage, and pledges to continue supporting every effort to hold the media accountable for inflammatory and polarising news coverage. The order also serves as a reminder to broadcasters that freedom of the press comes with a responsibility to report facts without manufacturing a narrative that can stigmatise communities or suppress legitimate expression.
APCR has called upon news broadcasters to follow the basic principles of accuracy, fairness and context, particularly while reporting on students, universities, minorities and matters involving political or international solidarity.
