Madras HC issues interim injunction against sexually explicit ads

Madras HC issues interim injunction against sexually explicit ads

The matter has been adjourned to 1 December.

Madras HC

KOLKATA: The Madurai bench of the Madras high court has issued an interim injunction against programmes or advertisements on TV channels displaying obscenity. In addition to that, the judges sought response from MIB on censorship of programmes telecast on channels.

“Some advertisements though look like promotion 'Aphrodisiac' popularly known as 'Love Drugs', it looks like a porno film. Nudity is exhibited in those advertisements, which is punishable under Section 16 of the Cable Television Network (Regulation) Act, 1995,” the order stated.

It also mentioned that the programmes/advertisements, which are aired on television in the name of selling condoms, aphrodisiacs, and inner wear are violating rules under Cable TV act. 

Acting on a plea by KS Sagadevaraja who had petitioned the court to curb the telecast of sexually explicit ads, the court noted that there are numerous TV channels that telecast such programmes round the clock and that the same are likely to affect the minds of young audiences.

"Nudity is available in the name of doctor's advice as well as advertisements and it is freely available and is being viewed by all including the children. It will definitely affect the minds of youngsters and children. Interest of justice requires to issue a direction as prayed for and also to safeguard the children and women," it pronounced.

The matter has been adjourned to 1 December.