TV channel in trouble for calling Delhi residents 'Rohingya', 'Bangladeshis'
A Noida-based channel was pulled up by the Delhi Minorities Commission (DMC) for terming locals of North Delhi's Bawana area "Rohingya" and "Bangladeshis." Sudarshan TV made the blooper in a program aired on May-11, and now has to explain its stand to the DMC by June-12, said the commission head. The channel should also tender an 'unconditional apology' for spreading 'fake reports', he added.
'Show proof of the locals being Bangladeshis or Rohingya'
DMC chairman Zafarul Islam Khan explained where the channel went wrong. He said government agencies had helped in the relocation of these locals, who are Indian citizens legally, from various parts of Delhi to a single area. They have been living here since decades, he added. Hence, Khan demanded that channel MD Suresh Chavhanke (pictured) show proof of the locals being 'Bangladeshis' or 'Rohingya.'
Can't prove Rohingya claim? Tender 'unconditional apology'
Khan further said that if Sudarshan TV fails to produce proof, it should "tender an unconditional apology." Along with that, it should inform DMC what action it has taken against the team that had "prepared and aired the fake report that (can) spread disaffection against a section of citizens." The channel should also issue an undertaking that "it wouldn't telecast such reports in future."
Know your man: Chavhanke is no stranger to controversy
A rape accused, Chavhanke was once arrested for inciting communal violence. In 2017, his channel carried a report where a physically-challenged man was shown getting beaten up as he was a 'Rohingya-criminal'. In reality, that man was an activist and the photo was of 2014.
Notice sent to Delhi Police as well, asking for progress
Upon failing to act on the issued notice, the commission would take "appropriate action" against the channel, Khan assured. The deputy commissioner of police of north district has also been asked to file a report as to what action it has taken against the broadcast channel and the person, who was allegedly behind spreading such communally colored comments, Khan added.
