Media Complaints

Media Complaint Registration with Helpful Foundation

Download and Submit Forms

Click the links below to download the forms required to register your complaint with Helpful Foundation (HF):

1. MEDIA COMPLAINT FORM
2. UNDERTAKING OF FEE PAID AFFIDAVIT

Instructions:                                                                                                       

1. Download the forms by clicking the links above.
2. Fill out the forms completely and attach any supporting documents or evidence.
3. Send the completed forms via email to: pg@helpful.foundation

Note:

1. HF Membership Holders: No fee is required to register a complaint.
2. Non-Members: A fee is applicable for legal action and complaint registration

Public Grievance Issues for Complaint Registration

Types of Media Complaints in India

1. Misinformation & Fake News

1. Publication/broadcast of false, fabricated, or misleading information.
2. Circulation of fake news on social media or TV.
3. Manipulation of facts to incite communal or political tension.

2. Defamation & Character Assassination

1. Publishing unverified allegations against individuals or organizations.
2. Malicious campaigns to damage reputation.
3. Trial by media before judicial verdicts.

3. Paid & Biased News

1. Paid news during elections, violating Election Commission rules.
2. Partisan coverage favoring political parties or corporates.
3. Suppression of important issues due to pressure from advertisers or owners.

4. Sensationalism & Invasion of Privacy

1. Showing graphic images of violence, death, or sexual assault victims.
2. Revealing identities of rape/POCSO victims (illegal under law).
3. Harassment of individuals through intrusive reporting.
4. Fake “sting operations” violating dignity & privacy.

5. Hate Speech & Irresponsible Reporting

1. Content that promotes communal hatred or discrimination.
2. Incitement to violence through TV debates, social media posts, or headlines.
3. Distorting facts about marginalized communities.

6. Ethical & Professional Misconduct

1. Plagiarism (copying content without credit).
2. Blackmail or extortion in the name of investigative journalism.
3. Non-compliance with Press Council’s code of ethics.

Who Can File a Media Complaint?

1. Individuals/organizations directly affected by false or harmful reporting.
2. Citizens concerned about fake news or hate campaigns.
3. NGOs, civil society groups monitoring media accountability.
4. Helpful Foundation (taking suo motu cognizance of harmful reporting).

✅ Media Complaints = Grievances about misinformation, unethical reporting, invasion of privacy, or biased and harmful content in print, electronic, and digital media.