No double-meaning comedy, BCCC advises TV channels

The Broadcasting Content Complaints Council (BCCC) has issued an advisory for channels of Indian Broadcasting Foundation (IBF) to keep the content of comedy shows in check.

According to BCCC officials, there is a lot of double-meaning language being used in comedy shows, and sometimes it crosses the line towards vulgarity on various channels, and they have received complaints regarding it.

"Comedy is an intrinsic part of our life and it is only natural that TV channels produce and telecast programmes that are humorous and light-hearted. The BCCC, however, feels that the line that divides healthy comedy from vulgarity, obscenity and double-meaning language must be strictly adhered to," A.P. Shah, BCCC Chairperson, said in a statement.

"This is necessary to ensure that the social message sent across through various comedy Shows to millions of viewers does not overstep this all-important threshold. We are confident that the channels which telecast comedy shows will keep this in mind," he added.

The organisation, a self-regulatory body for non-news general entertainment channels, has also asked channels to pay special attention to the issue of sexualisation of children on television shows. BCCC has asked channels to keep a check on health and safety of children participating in TV shows.