The National Commission for Women (NCW) on Monday took suo motu cognisance of reports alleging that a news channel aired defamatory content linking folk singer Neha Singh Rathore to a sex racket.
According to the commission, the channel reportedly used derogatory language against Rathore. The singer alleged that the report attempted to damage her reputation by portraying her as a sex worker.
In a post on X, the NCW said the channel later acknowledged that its report was factually incorrect and issued an apology following public criticism.
NCW Seeks Action Within 15 Days
NCW Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar has asked the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to direct relevant regulatory, administrative and self-regulatory bodies to take immediate action in the matter.
These include the Press Council of India, Electronic Media Monitoring Centre, News Broadcasters and Digital Association, and Digital Publishers Content Grievance Council.
The commission called for action within a fixed timeline under the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021. It also sought an action-taken report within 15 days.
NCW Calls for Safeguards Against Online Harassment
The commission emphasised the need to protect women from gender-based character assassination and digital harassment.
“Media freedom must be exercised responsibly, with due regard for factual accuracy, women’s dignity, privacy and reputation,” the NCW said.
