The division bench noted that the channel had not been given a chance to present its case. Besides, it observed, that there was merit in the channel’s argument that its advertising deals were dependant on the show being aired in the “prime time”, and hence ministry’s order led to “severe consequences”.

The I and B Ministry on Wednesday had directed Colors airing ‘Big Boss’ and Imagine airing ‘Rakhi ka Insaf’ to shift the telecast of the shows between 11 PM to 5 AM citing “abusive” language, “objectionable” content and divulging of “intimate” details on the shows.

Both the programmes are not for universal viewing and can be aired only in the scheduled time slot, the ministry told the channels in separate written orders, giving them a virtual A-certificate.

On ‘Big Boss’, the directive issued to the channel said, “It has been brought to the notice of this Ministry that the content of the reality show ‘Big Boss Season-IV’ being aired on Colors TV channel offends against good taste and decency.

“It was also brought to the notice of the Ministry that the content of the show is objectionable and not suitable for children and unrestricted public exhibition. The participants are often shown quarrelling in the programme and using abusive language.”