Purpose
Our commitment at The Indo Times is to uphold the highest ethical standards in all business and journalistic endeavors. All team members are expected to conduct business with integrity and transparency, avoiding personal gain in company matters and complying with all applicable laws.
Policy Overview
This Code of Ethics outlines our policy regarding (1) gifts, favors, and entertainment, (2) conflicts of interest, and (3) confidentiality. These standards ensure that The Indo Times remains a reputable and trustworthy source for its audience.
1. Gifts, Favors, and Payments
Gifts and Entertainment by The Indo Times
We allow for modest gifts and entertainment at company expense, only if:
- They align with standard business practices.
- They have a limited value and cannot be misinterpreted as bribery.
- They comply with all legal and ethical standards.
- They would not harm our reputation if made public.
Unapproved payments or compensations to benefit associates of our clients or partners are strictly against policy.
Accepting Gifts and Entertainment
Our associates must not solicit or accept gifts or favors that do not serve a legitimate business purpose. However, common courtesies are allowed, such as:
- Business meals, small gifts like calendars or pens, and event tickets, provided they are modest and align with ethical standards.
- Participation in business-related day outings or overnight stays with vendor presence, contingent on prior approval from a company officer.
Cash or marketable securities as gifts are strictly prohibited.
2. Conflicts of Interest
All associates must avoid situations that could create a conflict of interest, such as:
- Holding a significant interest in a competing company or serving in an executive capacity for a competitor.
- Acting on behalf of a third party in dealings that involve The Indo Times.
Full disclosure of any potential conflicts of interest is required, with written notification to management.
3. Confidential Information
Associates are prohibited from sharing or misusing confidential information, including proprietary data and personnel details, without authorization. Breaches may result in disciplinary action.
4. Compliance
Any violations must be reported to management. Non-compliance may lead to disciplinary actions, up to and including termination. Each department leader is responsible for enforcing these standards within their team.
Social Media Guidelines
Associates should exercise good judgment on social media, remembering that:
- Social media content is public and should reflect professionalism.
- Associates must represent only their own views, not those of The Indo Times.
- Confidential information and insider details should not be shared online.
- We encourage respectful and truthful engagement, refraining from disparaging remarks about colleagues, partners, or subjects covered in reporting.
Plagiarism
The Indo Times enforces a zero-tolerance policy toward plagiarism. Original reporting and proper attribution are core to our credibility and commitment to ethical journalism.
Fairness in Reporting
Our journalists strive to cover all sides of a story, providing individuals or organisations with the opportunity to respond to negative allegations.