The government has issued a notification banning surrogate advertising of liquor companies in print, electronic and outdoor media.
"The notification was issued on February 25, 2008, amending the Cable Television Networks Rules, 1994 to the effect that no advertisement shall be permitted which promotes directly or indirectly, sale or consumption of cigarettes, tobacco products, wine, alcohol or liquor," Information and Broadcasting Minister P R Dasmunsi told the Lok Sabha in a written reply.
He said, "Failure to comply will entail action as per the provisions of the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995 and rules framed thereunder".
The minister also added that even the Press Council of India, a statutory autonomous body, has laid down the norms for journalistic conduct under Article 13 (2)(b) of the Press Council Act 1987
Source: PTI March-19-08
