MahakalTimes.com – DNPA Code of Ethics for Digital News Websites
(Upholding Integrity, Accuracy, and Transparency in Digital Journalism)
At MahakalTimes.com, we uphold the highest standards of ethical journalism in the digital era.
Our Code of Ethics defines the values that guide every piece of content we publish — ensuring truthfulness, accountability, transparency, and respect for the trust our readers place in us.
This policy aligns with the Digital News Publishers Association (DNPA) principles, the Information Technology Act (2000), and the Press Council of India’s Norms of Journalistic Conduct.
1. Compliance with Laws
MahakalTimes.com operates within the constitutional and legal framework of India.
We ensure that all our digital content complies with:
- The Constitution of India (freedom of speech balanced with responsibility)
- The Information Technology Act, 2000
- The Copyright Act, 1957
- All relevant media, privacy, and defamation laws
Our editorial practices reflect both legal compliance and moral responsibility in every publication.
2. Ethical Journalism Practices
Our editorial team follows established principles of responsible journalism:
- Uphold accuracy, fairness, and transparency in all reporting.
- Avoid publication of inaccurate, baseless, or misleading information.
- Ensure pre-publication verification of every fact and data point.
- Refrain from defamatory, speculative, or biased reporting.
- Maintain strict separation between editorial content and paid promotions.
3. Accuracy and Right of Reply
Accuracy
- Every report must be based on verified facts and reliable sources.
- Editors must ensure that context is never misrepresented.
- Misleading headlines or exaggerated claims are not permitted.
Right of Reply
- Individuals or organizations referenced in a story have the right to respond before publication when possible.
- If a response is received later, the article will be updated with a clear timestamp.
- In cases involving serious allegations, we proactively seek statements from all parties.
4. Content Correction and Updates
Editing or Deleting Content
- If any content is found inaccurate, the incorrect portion will be edited or removed after verification.
- If the entire report is proven false, it will be retracted and replaced with a correction note.
Correction Process
- Corrections are initiated upon verified documentation or grievance from an affected party.
- A correction note is appended to the updated article mentioning what was changed and when.
- Archived versions may be retained for transparency and record.
5. Respect for Intellectual Property
We respect Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) in all forms.
- Prior permission is obtained for using copyrighted text, images, graphics, or videos.
- Proper attribution is always provided to original creators.
- If a copyright infringement is verified, the material is immediately removed or replaced.
- Our internal checks ensure zero tolerance for plagiarism or unauthorized usage.
6. Responsible Reporting
Crime and Legal Matters
- We never presume guilt or innocence before a court judgment.
- Crime reports rely solely on verified and legally sourced information.
Sensitive and Personal Cases
- We exercise caution in reporting sexual harassment, child abuse, domestic violence, or caste/religion-based disputes.
- The privacy and dignity of victims and families are strictly protected.
Reporting on Minors and Victims
- Names, photos, or identifying details of minors or victims are never published without lawful consent.
Avoiding Obscene or Explicit Content
- MahakalTimes.com complies with Sections 67, 67A, and 67B of the IT Act, 2000, which prohibit publication or transmission of obscene or sexually explicit content, especially involving minors.
7. Grievance Redressal Mechanism
We maintain a transparent and efficient grievance redressal system under the IT Act, 2000.
- A Grievance Officer is appointed to handle user or subject complaints.
- Contact details of the Grievance Officer are displayed on the website.
- Complaints are acknowledged within 36 hours and resolved within 30 days of receipt.
- Affected individuals may also request a factual correction or deletion if an error is verified.
Grievance Officer:
contact@mahakaltimes.com
+91-76919 – 00015
8. Training and Editorial Awareness
Our editorial staff undergo regular training in:
- Indian media laws and ethical standards.
- Responsible reporting on social, religious, and judicial matters.
- Understanding and implementing the DNPA Code of Ethics and Press Council norms.
Special modules include:
- Reporting on gender-based crimes and communal issues.
- Awareness of RTI Act, POCSO Act, and Indecent Representation of Women (Prohibition) Act.
9. Key Guidelines for Sensitive Reporting
- Avoid publishing content that could disturb communal harmony or incite hatred.
- Exercise extra caution while covering religion, caste, or inter-community issues.
- Always verify facts with multiple credible sources.
- Present balanced perspectives from all parties involved.
10. Promoting Peace and Harmony
MahakalTimes.com aims to be a source of unity and understanding.
- Content that encourages social peace, mutual respect, and cultural harmony is prioritized.
- We avoid sensationalism or any narrative that could harm societal balance.
11. Commitment to Ethical Digital Publishing
Our Code of Ethics represents MahakalTimes.com’s unwavering commitment to truth, fairness, and responsibility in digital journalism.
We pledge to:
✅ Uphold editorial independence and transparency.
✅ Ensure accuracy and accountability in every report.
✅ Protect the dignity and rights of individuals.
✅ Maintain the highest standards of ethical digital journalism.
12. Contact Us for Grievances or Suggestions
For any concerns, feedback, or suggestions, please contact:
contact@mahakaltimes.com
www.MahakalTimes.com
We welcome reader feedback and remain committed to maintaining the trust, respect, and confidence of our audience.