The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting on Monday said that no advertisements for condoms will be aired on television between 6 am and 10 pm. In an advisory to television channels, it said such advertisements are inappropriate and indecent for viewing by children.

The ministry said it had issued the notification based on complaints made by viewers. “No advertisement which endangers the safety of children or create in them any interest in unhealthy practices or shows them begging or in an undignified or indecent manner shall not be carried in the cable service,” the ministry said citing the Cable Network Television Rules, 1994.

The ministry also pointed out that the advertising code does not allow “indecent, vulgar, suggestive, repulsive or offensive themes or treatment” in advertisements. Thus, it advised television channels to telecast the condom advertisements only between 10 pm and 6 am, to “avoid exposure” of children to such material.