Arnab Fined 20,000 Pounds For Promoting Hatred
The United Kingdom’s broadcast regulator imposed a fine of 20,000 pounds on Arnab Goswami’s Republic Bharat for promoting hatred and intolerance.
The UK’s Office of Communications (OfCom) on 22nd December said an episode of Republic Bharat’s show ‘Poochta Hai Bharat’ that was aired on 6th September 2019 violated the conditions in the OfCom Broadcasting Code. The debate featured Arnab Goswami and panelists from India and Pakistan. During the debate some of the comments made were like hate speech against Pakistani people. According to OfCom during the show, "offensive language", "hate speech" and "abusive or derogatory treatment of individuals, groups, religions or communities" comments were made against people of Pakistan. OfCom has imposed a fine of 20,000 pounds (approximately Rs 19.73 lakh) on Arnab Goswami’s Republic Bharat for promoting hatred and intolerance. The programme was on India’s Chandrayaan 2 spacecraft mission to the moon. The programme also spoke about “a comparison of India’s space exploration and technological advancements compared to Pakistan.”
In the show, one guest also described Pakistani scientists as “thieves”, another described Pakistani people as “beggars”. The presenter, addressing Pakistan and Pakistani people said “We make scientists, and you make terrorists.” The channel has also been directed to broadcast a statement of Ofcom’s findings on a date and in a form to be determined by Ofcom. Republic Bharat has also been directed not to repeat the programme.
