Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi

Udupi, Mar 14: With Model Code of Conduct in effect, a Media Monitoring and Media Certification centre has been opened in Udupi deputy commissioner’s office.

This centre will monitor print, radio, television and online media for their news and content and ensure there is no campaigning for political parties or propaganda.

The officials appointed at the centre will closely monitor all local print media as well as cable TV and radio channels.

Prior permission is needed to advertise in local media. In case if any media is found violating MCC, the evidence will be collected and submitted to Assistant Returning Officer. A show cause notice will be issued to the candidate.

Officials from different departments are appointed in 3 shifts to watch 8 channels. The programmes will be recorded in DVR. Staff has also been appointed to closely monitor social media.

The newspapers and the advertisements it carries will be closely checked. In case if any news is found violating MCC, then a committee headed by DC and experts will check the news and action will be taken.

The DC Hephsiba Rani will head the Media Monitoring and Media Certification centre. The nodal officer will be zilla panchayat chief project officer Srinivas Rao and public information officer Khader Shah will be the member secretary. The members consist senior journalist Vardeshi Heeregange and others.