Effective Date: 01 Jan 2024
At ANG INDIA NEWS, we are dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of journalism, ensuring the integrity of our news articles, and fostering transparency with our readers. As part of our commitment to journalistic ethics, we have formulated a policy regarding the use of anonymous sources. This policy delineates the principles and procedures guiding our utilization of information obtained from anonymous sources in our articles.
1. Definition of Anonymous Sources:
Anonymous sources encompass individuals who furnish information to our reporters or journalists while opting to remain undisclosed. They may choose to withhold their identities, affiliations, or other identifying particulars.
2. Purpose of Anonymous Sources:
We acknowledge the pivotal role anonymous sources can play in bringing crucial news and information to the public domain. Such sources may offer insights, expose misconduct, or disclose sensitive information that might otherwise remain unreported. However, we recognize the imperative to balance the significance of anonymity with the imperative to verify information and uphold accountability.
3. Guidelines for Using Anonymous Sources:
a. Justification: The employment of anonymous sources must be justified by the importance of the information they provide. Our journalists will evaluate the significance, credibility, and potential ramifications of the information prior to opting for anonymity.
b. Exhausting Other Options: We encourage our journalists to exhaust all reasonable avenues for obtaining information from identified sources before resorting to anonymity. This encompasses seeking on-the-record statements, official documents, and multiple sources to corroborate the information.
c. Verification: Our journalists are tasked with verifying the credibility and accuracy of information proffered by anonymous sources to the best of their abilities. They will cross-reference the information with other sources, documents, or evidence whenever feasible.
d. Editorial Oversight: The decision to utilize anonymous sources will be subject to the editorial oversight of the ANG INDIA NEWS Team. Editors will scrutinize and assess the justification, relevance, and potential risks associated with employing anonymous sources.
4. Protecting Source Anonymity:
a. Confidentiality: We acknowledge the significance of preserving the confidentiality of anonymous sources. Our journalists will undertake reasonable measures to safeguard the identity and privacy of these sources.
b. Source Consent: Whenever feasible, our journalists will seek explicit consent from anonymous sources before disseminating their information. We respect the choices of our sources and understand that their circumstances may evolve over time.
c. Source Documentation: Our journalists will maintain accurate records of interactions with anonymous sources, including any agreements or stipulations regarding their anonymity. These records will be securely stored and accessible solely to authorized personnel.
5. Correction and Accountability:
a. Corrective Measures: In the event that information furnished by an anonymous source is found to be inaccurate, misleading, or unreliable, we are committed to promptly rectifying the record and updating our article with precise information.
b. Accountability: While we endeavor to uphold source confidentiality, we also recognize the importance of accountability in journalism. In extraordinary circumstances where the public interest or legal obligations necessitate it, we may disclose the identity of an anonymous source.
For any inquiries, concerns, or requests pertaining to our Anonymous Sources Policy, please contact us at nandu@angindianews.com or call us at +91 9973759234. Our office is located at Srinayak campus, Near Domino’s Pizza, National Highway 31, Purnia, Bihar 854301, India.
Please note that this policy is effective from 01 Jun 2023 and may undergo periodic review and updates.