Editorial standards

Accuracy before speed

• Separate firsthand knowledge from hearsay.
• Authenticate documents and preserve original context.
• Seek independent corroboration wherever reasonably possible.
• Use precise labels: allegation, corroborated account, official finding or court finding.
• Never present an accusation as a proven fact.

Fairness

• Contact an identifiable accused person or institution with the substance of the allegation and a reasonable opportunity to respond.
• Include material denials, explanations and exculpatory evidence.
• Disclose significant conflicts of interest.
• Minimise identification of victims, minors and vulnerable witnesses.

Publication control

An article must complete the editorial checklist and be approved by a second authorised editor who did not write it. Reporting that identifies an accused individual should also receive qualified Indian legal review before publication.

No payment for allegations

We do not pay for allegations or condition help on publication. Sources may submit evidence without agreeing to be named.