Indian state broadcaster Doordarshan is facing criticism after airing propaganda of fake and old videos of Israel attack on Iran on their channel.
The broadcast reportedly used old footage of an Israeli strike from 2024 while presenting it as a recent event.
The controversy has raised questions about media responsibility during regional tensions between Iran and Israel.
Doordarshan faces criticism over war coverage
India’s state-run broadcaster Doordarshan has come under scrutiny after airing a video report that allegedly showed an Israeli attack on Iran using old footage dated October 2024.
The video was presented as current coverage, which critics say could mislead viewers during an already tense security situation in the Middle East.
The broadcast also featured an anchor describing the situation with the statement, “Iran trembled after the Israeli strike.”
The wording and presentation were widely criticised by media observers who said it lacked balance and context.
Journalists and analysts said using outdated footage as live war reporting can damage public trust in media institutions, especially during sensitive international conflicts.
Criticism from public figures and commentators
Several commentators in India criticised the broadcast. Indian thinker Sandeep Manudhane strongly condemned the report, saying, “This is our national broadcaster, funded by taxpayers. Iran is a friend of India, with substantial Indian investments there. To air fake footage during such a sensitive time is not just irresponsible journalism, it’s a diplomatic blunder.”
He further argued that sections of the Indian media sometimes present one-sided narratives aligned with political positions. He also urged media organisations to avoid misinformation, especially when reporting on conflicts involving neighbouring or strategic partner countries.
Concerns raised in Iran and the Gulf region
The broadcast also triggered criticism from Iranian social media users and some officials. Many expressed concern that misleading media coverage could increase regional tensions.
Media commentators in Gulf countries also noted what they described as growing misinformation across international media platforms during the conflict.
Some Gulf media outlets warned against spreading unverified war content, saying that false reports can increase political and social tensions in multicultural societies.
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