The Press Council of India (PCI) Chairman, Justice C.K. Prasad has noted with concern the Govt. of Maharashtra Order no. DMU/2020/CR.92/DisM-1, dated 18th April 2020, Addendum to Order no. DMU/2020/CR.92/DisM-1, dated 17th April 2020, not adhering to the Govt. of India, Order no. E-36011/8/2020-BP&L dated 23rd March 2020 issued to the Chief Secretaries of all States/UTs to ensure operational continuity of print media in view of threat of COVID-19 outbreak and Press Council of India Advisory no. 17/7/2020 dated 25/03/2020 issued to all the Chief Secretaries of States including the Govt. of Maharashtra, to take necessary measures/actions in ensuring continuity and smooth functioning of the print media and news agencies within their jurisdictions.
Taking suo-motu cognizance on the issue, the Hon’ble Chairman has issued a Notice for Comments to the Chief Secretary to the Govt. of Maharashtra.