NBDSA Pulls Zee News ‘Mehandi Jihad’ Coverage, Flags Violations of Broadcasting Ethics

The News Broadcasting & Digital Standards Authority of India directed Zee News to take down all content related to the alleged 'Mehandi Jihad' controversy in Uttar Pradesh.

The order passed by the NBDSA Chairperson stated that the news group violated the principles of neutrality under the Code of Ethics and Broadcasting Standards and the Specific Guidelines Covering Reportage.

The broadcasts highlighted calls by certain ‘Hindu organisations’ urging women to hire only Hindus for applying henna during Karwa Chauth, but included inflammatory tickers and provocative headlines. NBDSA found the coverage likely to spread anti-Muslim sentiment.