Reporting violence, communal tension and suicide

Some stories can cause further harm if they are told carelessly. Report them fully — but with care.

## Communal tension and riots
- Report facts, not rumours. Rumours during tension can cost lives.
- The Press Council's norms caution against identifying the communities involved in a clash in a way that could inflame tension; describe what happened and its effect.
- Avoid inflammatory headlines and pictures. Check every video before using it — old clips are often recirculated during tension.
- Use official figures, attributed, and update them as they change.

## Violence and graphic images
Ask whether a graphic picture tells the reader something they need to know. Usually a less graphic picture tells the story just as well. Think of the families who will see it.

## Suicide
Careless reporting of suicide can lead to more suicides; careful reporting can help prevent them. The Press Council of India has asked the media to follow the World Health Organization's guidelines:
- Do not describe the method or the place in detail.
- Do not use the word "suicide" in a headline in a sensational way, and do not present it as a solution to problems.
- Do not publish suicide notes, photographs or videos of the person or the scene.
- Do include information on where to get help — for example Tele-MANAS, India's free mental health helpline: 14416.

## The person behind the story
Victims, survivors and families are people, not material. Treat them as you would want your own family to be treated.