Dear Sir,
Grounds on which complaint can be filed
- To file a complaint, the user has to be sure that the content, against which the complaint is being filed, should fall under the following categories of violations:
- Child Abuse: This includes child maltreatment like physical, mental, sexual or emotional abuse of children. Child marriages are also covered under this head.
- Violence against Women: This category deals with offences which are gender specific.
- If the user finds anything which contains anything obscene or nudity or sexual conduct which is not appropriate for children.
- Broadcasting anything which creates superstition in the minds of the viewers.
- Any content which creates a communal disturbance or promotes violence, it can be in the form of any speech, statement or any video. Also, the content which is against the law and order the country.
- Excessive usage of drugs, alcohol and solvent abuse.
- Coarse and offensive language or the content which contains explicit scenes of violence.
- Content which contains criticism of friendly countries.
- Criticizing any particular religion or a particular caste or tribe in the country.
However, it is to be noted that this list is not exhaustive.
- Then the user needs to record that piece of content which according to him is objectionable; this can be done either electronically or by making notes.
- Another important thing to be kept in mind is that the user must always note the name of the show in which such objectionable content is being shown with the name of the channel and the date and time of the broadcast.
Time period for filing the complaint
A complaint should be made to the broadcaster, within 7 days from the date of the first broadcast of that particular episode or news or the show, which is broadcasting such content, and the time period shouldn’t exceed more than that.
Procedure for filing the complaint
- Immediately record the biased segment or message. Note the basic 5W’s: who, where, what, when, why and how. Then write down clear details, also try to describe in detail what was said or shown and in what context. Make sure to write down the correct name of the show, the channel responsible for the segment, along with the exact date and time.
- Mention the objection first then use a constructive approach for more strategic reasons. A polite and moderate tone projects an image of reason, firmness and seriousness. Try to avoid being emotional and using the words which suggest insults, threats or overreaction. Remember that your main goal is to get a public apology, and prevent further bias and mobilize public support for your viewpoint. Using antagonistic and negative approach often makes people more defensive, and this stops them to take any suggestions or demands for change.
- Always communicate directly to authority- For practical purposes, you may find it more persuasive and effective to send your complaint to EMCC and also to the concerned channel. And it’s very important that you always keep a copy of your complaint for future references and records.