The Union Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has intervened in allegations related to the manipulation of television news channel ratings and has sought a detailed report on the matter.
Responding to questions raised in the Lok Sabha, Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting Dr. L. Murugan stated that a Malayalam television news channel has been allegedly linked to a bribery scam involving the manipulation of viewership ratings. According to media reports cited by the ministry, the channel is accused of paying bribes to an official of the Broadcast Audience Research Council (BARC) to influence ratings.
The minister clarified that a preliminary report, including details of the action taken in connection with the FIR, has been sought from the Director General of Police (DGP), Kerala. A file has also been opened by the ministry to examine the issue further.
Dr. Murugan noted that television ratings in India are governed by the 2014 Policy Guidelines for Television Rating Agencies, which mandate strict confidentiality of household data and transparent, accountable management by rating agencies. He added that the central government is closely monitoring developments to ensure the credibility and integrity of the television rating system.