Editorial & News Policy
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The Jalandhar Times aims to publish timely, accurate and responsible journalism. This policy explains the standards we apply to reporting, sourcing, corrections, updates and editorial independence.
1. Accuracy and verification
We aim to verify material facts before publication and to distinguish confirmed information from claims, allegations, estimates and developing information. Where an event is still unfolding, reports may be updated as reliable new information becomes available.
2. Sources and attribution
Information should be attributed to identifiable and appropriate sources whenever possible. Official documents, statements, direct interviews, on-record witnesses and other verifiable material are preferred. Anonymous sourcing may be used when there is a legitimate editorial reason to protect a source, but such information should be assessed carefully before publication.
3. Allegations and right of reply
Allegations are reported as allegations unless and until they are established by competent evidence or authority. Where a report contains serious criticism or allegations about an identifiable person or organisation, we aim, when reasonably practicable, to seek their response and present relevant context fairly.
4. Corrections, clarifications and updates
Material factual errors should be corrected promptly after they are verified. A clarification may be added where wording was accurate but could reasonably create a misleading impression. Developing stories may be updated when new verified information becomes available. Significant editorial changes should be reflected transparently where appropriate.
5. Independence, opinion and conflicts
News reporting should be based on editorial judgment rather than pressure from advertisers, political groups, businesses or other outside interests. Opinion, analysis, sponsored material and advertising should be distinguishable from straight news reporting. Contributors should disclose relevant conflicts of interest to the newsroom.
6. Images, video and user-submitted material
Photographs, video, screenshots and other material should be used with appropriate permission, attribution or lawful basis. User-submitted content should be checked for authenticity and context before it is presented as factual evidence. Images should not be altered in a way that materially misrepresents a news event.
7. Privacy, minors and sensitive reporting
We consider privacy, public interest and potential harm when identifying private individuals. Additional care is taken when reporting about children, victims, medical matters and other sensitive circumstances. Publication decisions are made case by case with regard to the legitimate public interest.
8. AI-assisted tools
Digital or AI-assisted tools may support newsroom tasks such as research organisation, transcription, translation or drafting assistance, but responsibility for publication remains with the newsroom. Material facts, names, quotations and significant claims should be checked before publication.
9. Complaints and corrections requests
If you believe an article contains a factual error, please identify the article, the statement you believe is incorrect and any supporting information. The newsroom will review the request and decide whether a correction, clarification, update or other response is appropriate.
Contact the newsroom
Email: editor@thejalandhartimes.com
Phone / WhatsApp: +91-77175-93323