The I&B minister said that as far as the public broadcaster is concerned, there are various models like the BBC and others available which would be studied. Javadekar said he was not in favour of a model where the public broadcaster is accountable to the minister “only”.
“Today, it is like this that as if it is a government fiefdom. I don't want to make this as a government fiefdom but really a competitive market channel,” he said. He was asked if he would appoint a professional editor of Doordarshan and All India Radio and provide that person full freedom. “This is a good suggestion for action and we'll seriously follow on it,” he said.
To a question related to promotions and transfers of Prasar Bharati's News Services staff, Javadekar said he had not sought even a single transfer. He said that there would be no interference in the functioning of Prasar Bharati which is working independently.
Referring to a question related to Doordarshan's controversial editing of a Narendra Modi interview, Javadekar said the national broadcaster would be given complete freedom and can interview whoever they want.
On a question on FDI in media, Javadekar said he was open to discussion with stakeholders. He, however, added he shared the view that the news media is sensitive and allowing more FDI should be thought about very carefully.
Javadekar said he felt that private radio channels could be allowed news broadcasts though they could be asked to use AIR bulletins or news provided by credible news agencies. Thapar asked Javadekar about petitions filed against the publication of certain books which he said had led to concerns in the mind of publishers, to which the minister said he was willing to listen to any such concerns.
