Core Principles of the DNPA Code of Ethics
Accuracy, Transparency, and Fairness
Publishers are committed to providing accurate and reliable news. They must make reasonable efforts to verify information before publication. If errors are discovered, they must be corrected promptly and clearly. The journalism must be fair, balanced, and impartial, avoiding conflicts of interest that could compromise integrity. Any sponsored content (advertorials) must be explicitly labeled as such to distinguish it from editorial content.
Right of Reply and Grievance Redressal
A key aspect of the code is respecting an individual's right to reply to any allegations. Publishers must provide a fair opportunity for a response. Furthermore, every member must establish a clear and accessible Grievance Redressal Mechanism to handle complaints or concerns from readers regarding content. This includes appointing a Grievance Officer to address issues in a timely manner.
Respect for Privacy and Intellectual Property
Journalists must respect individual privacy and can only intrude on it when there is a clear and overriding public interest. The code also mandates that publishers respect copyright and intellectual property rights, not plagiarizing or using others' work without proper attribution or permission.
Prohibited Content
The DNPA Code of Ethics aligns with Indian law, particularly the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021. Members are prohibited from publishing content that:
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Threatens the unity, integrity, defense, security, or sovereignty of India.
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Is defamatory, obscene, pornographic, or invasive of another's privacy.
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Promotes enmity between different groups on grounds of religion, race, etc.
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Is harmful to minors.
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Deceives or misleads about the origin of a message.
