Editorial Policy – The Upsc Times
Effective Date: September 2025
At The Upsc Times, journalism is a public trust. Our editorial policy sets the standards that guide every story we publish — from breaking news to long-form analysis. These standards ensure that our reporting is accurate, independent, transparent, and rooted in the public interest.
1. Accuracy & Verification
We prioritise factual accuracy above speed.
- • Every article is verified against primary sources — official documents, court records, regulatory filings, and government data.
- • When using secondary sources (news agencies, think tanks, journals), we attribute clearly and cross-check for consistency.
- • Corrections and clarifications are issued promptly and transparently (see our Corrections Policy).
2. Independence & Neutrality
- • Our newsroom operates independently of political parties, governments, corporations, or lobbying groups.
- • Advertising and sponsored content are clearly labelled and never influence editorial judgment.
- • Journalists and editors must disclose conflicts of interest and recuse themselves when necessary.
3. Fairness & Balance
- • We strive to present multiple perspectives on contentious issues.
- • When reporting criticism or allegations, we offer the right of reply to individuals or institutions involved.
- • Headlines and summaries are written to inform, not sensationalise.
4. Transparency & Accountability
Byline Transparency
Every article carries the author's name and profile.
Editorial Decisions
Taken collectively, with responsibility resting on the Editor-at-Large and Managing Editor.
Reader Feedback
We maintain an open channel for reader feedback and correction requests.
5. Use of Sources
- • On-the-record is our default.
- • Anonymous sources are used only when information is critical and cannot be obtained otherwise, and must be vetted by a senior editor.
- • We never pay for information.
6. Editorial Independence from Business
- • Ownership rests with Scorpyns Technologies Private Limited, but business operations (ads, partnerships, technology) are structurally separated from the newsroom.
- • Editorial leadership (Editor-at-Large and Managing Editor) has final authority over content decisions.
7. Ethical Standards
- • We respect the privacy of individuals, except where disclosure is clearly in the public interest.
- • We avoid language or visuals that promote hate, discrimination, or misinformation.
- • Plagiarism, fabrication, and deliberate distortion are grounds for termination.
8. Style & Presentation
Clear Language
Articles are written in clear, concise language.
Context & Visuals
We prioritise context, charts, and visuals that help readers understand complex issues.
Clean Design
Our design values readability: no clutter, no clickbait.
9. Engagement with Readers
- • Readers are encouraged to critique and question our work.
- • Feedback and complaints can be sent to [email protected].
- • Substantive concerns are reviewed by the editorial leadership team.
Contact
Related Policies
Our editorial policy works alongside other governance documents to ensure comprehensive journalistic standards.