India bans telecast of condom ads between 6am & 10pm

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has banned contraceptive commercial to be aired between 06:00 – 22:00 because they are found to be “indecent especially for children” and can create “unhealthy practices”.

An advisory released said, “It has been brought to the notice of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting that some channels carry advertisements of condoms repeatedly which are alleged to be indecent especially for children.”

The advisory applies to all television services in India banning an “advertisement which endangers the safety of children or create in them any interest in unhealthy practices or shows them begging or in an undignified or indecent manner.”

“In view of the above, all TV channels are hereby advised not to telecast the advertisements of condoms which are for a particular age group and could be indecent/inappropriate for viewing by children. Indecent, vulgar, suggestive, repulsive or offensive themes or treatment shall be avoided in all advertisements.

It said such advertisements may be telecast between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. to avoid exposure of such material to children.

“Any failure will attract action as per provisions of the rules,” said the advisory.