The ministry of information and broadcasting had first announced a freeze on news ratings on March 6, saying the move was intended to discourage “unwarranted sensationalism and speculative content” by certain news channels covering the West Asia conflict.
Broadcasters from northern and eastern India are exploring legal options, including potentially approaching the Kerala High Court, over the ministry’s decision, the people said. A final decision on whether to proceed is likely within two weeks.
The broadcasters are expected to argue that the prolonged suspension of television ratings is disrupting business operations, affecting advertising, distribution negotiations and revenue planning.
In an email to subscribers dated June 1, BARC India said it had received a “further directive” from the ministry to withhold TV news ratings for another four weeks, or until further directions, whichever is earlier.
The suspension applies to Hindi, regional, English and business news channels, starting with the ratings release for week 21, which was scheduled to be announced on June 4.
The extension comes amid proceedings in the Kerala High Court, which granted interim relief to the All India Digital Cable Federation, the apex body of cable TV service providers, by staying provisions of the TV Ratings Policy, 2026, which require “landing page” viewership to be excluded from final ratings data.Landing page refers to the first channel displayed when a television set is switched on, before viewers actively choose another channel.
Landing pages have emerged as a contentious issue within the broadcast industry. Smaller broadcasters have alleged that larger television networks benefit disproportionately from such placements, potentially influencing ratings outcomes.
India has around 400 news channels out of more than 900 permitted private satellite TV channels. The space is dominated by broadcasters such as TV Today, Network18, NDTV, Times Network and TV9.
Industry executives estimate broadcasters, particularly news channels, spend upwards of ₹100 crore annually on landing page placements to improve visibility.
The continued suspension of ratings has also begun affecting commercial arrangements.
According to communications reviewed by ET, NDTV informed cable TV distribution partners that it was terminating its promotion agreement with immediate effect, citing the suspension of TV ratings since March 6. The broadcaster requested the discontinuation of landing page placements and related promotional activities.
JioStar, separately informed cable TV distribution partners that it would terminate its landing page agreement under a contractual clause requiring a 15-day notice period.
