1. Object and Basic Precepts

Doon Horizon voluntarily adheres to this Code of Ethics, demonstrating our commitment to responsible digital publishing. While protecting our Constitutionally mandated freedoms under Article 19(1)(a), we constantly review developments that may restrict the gathering and dissemination of news and current affairs.

• Editorial Independence: This Code outlines high standards and practices but does not interfere with the day-to-day operations of Doon Horizon, which retains complete editorial and content independence.
• Core Purpose: To maintain the standards of digital publishing while protecting the independence of our journalists, editors, and content creators.

2. Adherence to the Law of the Land

Doon Horizon diligently adheres to accepted norms of journalistic ethics and the highest standards of professional conduct. We follow the laws of the land, including:

• The Constitution of India and all relevant media laws.
• The New Criminal Codes: Provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023 and the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023.
• IT Act & Digital Media Rules: The Information Technology Act, 2000, and the updated Information Technology Rules, 2021.

3. Accuracy, Transparency & Human-Verification 

• Verification: Publication of inaccurate, baseless, or distorted material must be eschewed. Pre-publication verification is mandatory.
• AI & Technology Ethics: While we utilize AI-assisted tools for research and symbolic imagery, we maintain a strict ‘Human-in-the-loop’ policy. No article is published without rigorous editing and verification by our senior editorial team.
• Synthetic Media: All AI-generated images used for representation are clearly labeled to ensure readers are not misled.
• Defamation: Must be strictly avoided, ensuring adherence to applicable civil and criminal laws.

4. Right of Reply & Corrections

• Incorporating Responses: News reports carrying allegations must incorporate comments from the subject.
• Tracking Developments: Updates regarding new developments in a story must be carried with the date of the update clearly visible.
• Take Down Policy: If a report is proven false, it must be edited or taken down immediately upon verification of valid documentation.

5. Respect for Intellectual Property Rights (IPR)

• Copyright: Copyright in text, photographs, and diagrams must be respected. Prior permission is required for copyrighted material.
• Trademarks: Third-party marks cannot be used without permission unless it constitutes “fair use.”
• Infringement Claims: Upon receiving a valid request, infringing content will be edited or removed.

6. Sensitive Reporting & Privacy

• Presumption of Innocence: Unbiased reporting based strictly on facts is required in crime matters.
• Vulnerable Subjects: Extreme care is mandated when reporting on child abuse, rape, or communal clashes. Identifying details of victims must be strictly avoided.
• Communal Harmony: Verification of facts and restraint are mandatory to ensure the promotion of peace.
• Judicial Matters: Accurate reporting of court hearings is required without editorial comment.
• Privacy: Respect for privacy is paramount, especially for individuals who are not in public life.

7. Grievance Redressal Mechanism

Doon Horizon complies with the grievance redressal framework under IT Rules, 2021.

• Grievance Officer: We have appointed a Grievance Officer whose details are prominently displayed.
• Resolution Timelines: Complaints will be acknowledged within 24 hours and resolved within 15 days.

8. Training and Awareness Programs

Doon Horizon conducts periodic training for editorial staff regarding the Constitution, Criminal Codes (BNS/BNSS), POCSO Act, and Copyright laws to maintain high journalistic standards.