All India Radio has launched an inquiry into the re-tweeting by its official Twitter handle of anti-Pakistan comments after India defeated Pakistan in a World Cup cricket match on Sunday.
The Hindu had reported the re-tweeting of “obnoxious” tweets when both countries are set to resume their bilateral dialogue. Jawahar Sircar, CEO of Prasar Bharti, sought an inquiry and apology from the Director-General, AIR.
All India Radio put out three tweets on its official Twitter handle on Monday expressing regret and promising action for allowing re-tweets of anti-Pakistan comments.
The apology came after Jawahar Sircar, CEO of Prasar Bharti, tweeted in the morning: “AIR News re-tweets Pakistan bashing” Regret poor taste: DG shd enquire & apologise! Must bring in professionals NOW.”
“Presently, @airnewsalerts expresses sadness if anybody's feelings are hurt,” tweeted the national broadcaster. “Prima facie, nothing against spirit of the game was re-tweeted by @airnewsalerts yesterday. However, following a media report, the issue is being inquired into and appropriate action would be taken.”
The controversial re-tweets were deleted from AIR’s Twitter account by Monday afternoon. The Hindu has screen shots of the tweets. Sources in AIR said an ADG-level officer was asked to hold an inquiry and submit a report. The official said he would look at the re-tweets and their subsequent deletion from the official account.
Published - February 17, 2015 01:36 am IST
