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Now, comedy shows in poor taste on BCCC's radar

BCCC expresses its concern over double entendres used in 'comedy shows' in the name of humour

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Now, comedy shows in poor taste on BCCC's radar

BCCC expresses its concern over double entendres used in 'comedy shows' in the name of humour

BestMediaInfo Bureau | Delhi | January 2, 2013

publive-imageAfter issuing two children-related advisories last week, the Broadcasting Content Complaints Council (BCCC), the self-regulatory body for non-news General Entertainment Channels, has issued another advisory for member channels of the Indian Broadcasting Foundation (IBF). On receiving many complaints against double-meaning dialogues used in 'comedy shows' telecast on various GECs, BCCC issued the advisory pertaining to 'Telecast of Comedy Shows'.

BCCC has expressed its concern over this trend which often ranges on crass, abusive, vulgar and double-meanings with sexual overtones in the name of humour. The council felt that at times such comedy shows cross the threshold of 'generally accepted standards' in terms of language and reflect the “indelicate attitude” of participants.

In the advisory, BCCC has clarified that it had no intention of curtailing artistic freedom. It, however, advised all member channels of IBF to exercise discretion to make television viewing more pleasurable and not let such comedy shows become platforms for making lewd remarks.

It further said in the advisory that these 'comedy shows' should be appropriately scheduled to have the minimal impact on diverse Indian viewers. Sometimes, the content of the so-called jokes is demeaning and smutty.

BCCC also advised IBF member channels to use friendly banters without being derisive to any community, religion and individual.

Stressing the need for issuing the new advisory, BCCC Chairperson Justice (Retd.) AP Shah said, “Comedy is an intrinsic part of our life and it is only natural that TV channels produce and telecast programmes that are humorous and light-hearted. The BCCC, however, feels that the line that divides healthy comedy from vulgarity, obscenity and double-meaning language must be strictly adhered to.”

“This is necessary to ensure that the social message sent across through various comedy shows to millions of viewers does not overstep this all-important threshold. We are confident that the channels which telecast Comedy Shows will keep this in mind,” added Shah.

Info@BestMediaInfo.com

Info@BestMediaInfo.com

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