DNPA Code of Ethics – Tez Awaaz

At Tez Awaaz, we are committed to maintaining the highest standards of ethical journalism and professional conduct. The following guidelines, aligned with the Digital News Publishers Association (DNPA) Code of Ethics, serve to protect our credibility, foster transparency, and ensure that every member of our organization upholds integrity in every action.

Purpose

We believe that ethical behavior is fundamental to trust. This policy ensures all associates act lawfully, responsibly, and without any personal bias or conflict of interest.

1. Gifts, Favors, and Payments (Given by TezAwaaz)

• Gifts or hospitality extended by Tez Awaaz must:
  • Follow standard business practices.
  • Be of nominal value.
  • Be legal and appropriate for public disclosure.
• Uncontracted payments or commissions to associates of clients or vendors are strictly prohibited.

2. Gifts, Favors, Entertainment, and Payments (Received by Associates)

• Associates must not solicit or accept gifts, payments, or entertainment that:
  • Lack a clear business purpose.
  • Are intended to influence editorial or business decisions.
• Exceptions: Modest courtesies (e.g., coffee, notebooks, festive gifts) that are customary and not excessive in value may be accepted with discretion.

3. Conflicts of Interest

• Employees must avoid activities where personal interests conflict with company responsibilities, such as:
  • Financial interest in competitors or business partners.
  • Serving as a consultant, board member, or advisor to rival organizations.
• Disclosure of potential conflicts to the reporting manager is mandatory.

4. Confidential Information

• Sharing, leaking, or misusing confidential company information is strictly prohibited.
• Breaches may result in immediate termination and legal action.

5. Compliance

• Any violation of this Code may lead to disciplinary action, including termination.
• All employees are responsible for reporting unethical behavior or violations they observe or suspect.

6. Social Media Guidelines

a. Introduction

• Employees must understand that posts made online are public and reflect on the organization.

b. Be Careful What You Post

• Associates are responsible for their online behavior.
• Personal opinions should be clearly marked and not misrepresented as company views.
• Inappropriate or offensive content can result in disciplinary measures.

c. Be Respectful and Professional

• Maintain civility in all digital interactions.
• Avoid content that could be seen as harassing, defamatory, or discriminatory.

d. Be Honest and Accurate

• Verify facts before posting.
• Promptly correct any errors or misleading information.

e. Respect Laws and Confidentiality

• Comply with copyright, defamation, and privacy laws.
• Never share confidential company or editorial information online.

f. Report Your Concerns

• Concerns about social media misuse or other ethical breaches should be reported to Human Resources.
• Whistleblower protection is guaranteed—retaliation will not be tolerated.

7. Plagiarism and Editorial Fairness

• Plagiarism is strictly prohibited.
• Journalistic integrity requires:
  • Proper attribution.
  • Balanced coverage.
  • Giving all parties in a story a fair opportunity to respond.

Conclusion

At Tez Awaaz, our voice must always echo with truth, fairness, and responsibility. Every associate of Tez Awaaz carries the responsibility to preserve the organization’s integrity, uphold public trust, and set the standard for ethical journalism.