Editorial Policy

1) Mission & Scope

bataSutra publishes India-focused business, markets, and policy journalism. This policy applies to all editorial staff, contributors, editors, and designers.

2) Standards: Accuracy, Fairness, Context

• Accuracy over speed: we verify facts before publication and correct swiftly when wrong.
• Provide sufficient context and avoid misleading framing or clickbait headlines.
• Seek diverse perspectives; reflect material counter-arguments where relevant.

3) Sourcing, Anonymous Sources & Right of Reply

• Prefer named sources; anonymity requires editor approval and a clear public-interest rationale.
• Corroborate claims with documents, data, or multiple sources when feasible.
• Offer timely right of reply to subjects of critical coverage.

4) Data, Charts & Methodology

• Publish methodology, caveats, and source links for data-led stories and graphics.
• Charts must reflect underlying data faithfully; choices (axes, baselines, sampling) are justified.
• We label modeled/estimated figures and avoid overstating precision.

5) Independence & Conflicts

• Editorial and commercial functions are separated; sponsors do not influence coverage.
• Disclose and manage actual or perceived conflicts; editors may reassign stories or require disclosures.
• Editorial staff may be subject to trading blackouts and holdings rules where coverage overlaps.

6) Labelling: News, Analysis, Opinion, Sponsored

• News: Reported facts with neutral tone.
• Analysis/Explainer: Context and interpretation grounded in data and reporting.
• Opinion: Clearly marked commentary.
• Sponsored/Partner: Prominently labeled; editorial retains control over standards disclosures.

7) Corrections & Updates

• Material errors: visible correction note detailing what changed and when.
• Non-material clarifications and updates are noted in-line or in footers where appropriate.

8) Embargoes & Off-the-Record

• We honor embargoes we agree to; we do not accept conditions that compromise independence.
• “Off the record” terms must be explicit and agreed beforehand.

9) Social Media & Personal Publishing

• Staff should avoid partisan endorsements that undermine perceived neutrality.
• Breaking news and corrections should route through editorial channels before posting.

10) AI & Automated Tools

• AI may assist with research/production but never replaces editorial judgment; sensitive claims require human verification.
• If AI meaningfully contributes to text or imagery, we disclose.

11) Privacy, Safety & Minors

• Exercise heightened care with minors and vulnerable subjects; minimize harm and avoid gratuitous details.
• Respect reasonable expectations of privacy unless overriding public interest exists.

12) Plagiarism & Attribution

• We do not plagiarize. Quotations and unique reporting are attributed; images and data carry source credits.
• Use of external material complies with license terms and fair dealing/fair use.