Centre requests media platforms to display Azadi logo

The advisory is a near repeat of the one that was sent out in the early months of the Modi govt for airing the Prime Minister’s monthly radio programme, Mann ki Baat

Representational Image: File picture

Special Correspondent   |   TT  |  New Delhi   |  28.10.21: The information and broadcasting ministry on Wednesday issued an advisory to all media platforms — be it print, electronic or digital — requesting them to display the logo of Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav, the commemoration of the 75th anniversary of Independence.

The advisory is a near repeat of the one that was sent out in the early months of the Narendra Modi government for airing the Prime Minister’s monthly radio programme, Mann ki Baat. Though technically it was a request, almost all channels and radio stations had complied with that advisory.

Pointing out that the 75-week commemoration of this milestone in modern Indian history has already begun and will continue till August 15, 2023, the advisory said: “Media platforms may consider displaying the official ‘Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav’ logo during news programmes, reports, bulletins, especially while reporting on 75 years of India’s Independence so that viewers may be informed about the campaign and they take forward the spirit of ‘Jan Bhagidari’ (public participation) envisaged under the Mahotsav.”.

Further, the advisory places on record that private media has consistently taken the lead in celebrating India’s patriotic spirit and national achievements. “It is advised to use the logo during the period of celebrations so that citizens are made aware of India’s rich history and commitment to a bright future,’’ it said.

Since this commemoration programme was launched on March 12, the Modi government has been promoting the use of the logo at various levels.

Last month, the Supreme Court’s registry objected to the image of the Prime Minister popping up as part of the logo in emails sent from its official email account. The National Informatics Centre (NIC) which provides email services to the Supreme Court was asked to drop the image of the Prime Minister from the footer of the emails originating from the apex court.

The NIC has since complied with the Supreme Court’s directions and is now using a picture of the apex court instead. Some lawyers who had received the Supreme Court’s email with Modi’s image in the footer had objected to this on the premise that the judiciary is independent, and not a part of the government.