Editorial Independence
SwaLay Digital maintains full editorial independence in all its published content. Our editorial decisions are driven solely by journalistic merit, reader interest, and the public good. No external entity, including advertisers, sponsors, partners, investors, or government agencies, has the authority to influence, alter, suppress, or direct our editorial coverage. Our founder, editorial team, and contributors are committed to producing content that serves the interests of independent music creators and the broader music community.
Conflicts of Interest
SwaLay Digital is operated by TalantonCore LLP, which also operates SwaLay Plus, a commercial music distribution platform. We acknowledge this relationship transparently. When reporting on topics that directly involve SwaLay's commercial services, products, or competitors, we disclose this relationship within the article. Our editorial team exercises additional scrutiny on articles that may create a perceived or actual conflict of interest. Contributors are required to disclose any financial, professional, or personal relationships that could influence their coverage of a subject. No contributor may write about a company or individual with whom they have an undisclosed financial relationship.
No Pay-for-Coverage
SwaLay Digital does not accept payment, gifts, or any form of consideration in exchange for editorial coverage. Press releases and promotional content submitted by external parties are evaluated on their news value alone. We do not guarantee coverage in exchange for advertising purchases. Any article that involves a commercial partnership or sponsorship is clearly and prominently labelled as such.
Protection of Sources
We protect the identity of confidential sources when anonymity has been agreed upon. We will not reveal the identity of a confidential source unless legally compelled to do so by a court of competent jurisdiction. We encourage sources to go on the record whenever possible, but we recognise that in some circumstances, anonymity is necessary to protect the source from retaliation, harassment, or professional harm.
Diversity and Inclusion
SwaLay Digital is committed to representing the full diversity of the independent music ecosystem in India. We actively seek perspectives from artists and creators across all regions, languages (Hindi, Punjabi, Bhojpuri, Tamil, Telugu, Bengali, Marathi, and all other Indian languages), genres, genders, and backgrounds. We avoid stereotyping and ensure our coverage reflects the richness and complexity of India's independent music community. We welcome feedback on how we can improve our representation and inclusion.
Plagiarism and Attribution
All content published by SwaLay Digital is original or properly attributed. We do not publish plagiarised content. All quotes, data, images, and ideas from external sources are properly credited and linked. Contributors found to have plagiarised content will have their articles removed and will be prohibited from future contributions.
Fairness and Right of Reply
When our reporting involves criticism or allegations against any individual, company, or organisation, we make reasonable efforts to seek a response from the affected party before publication. If a response is not received before the publication deadline, we note in the article that a response was sought. After publication, we provide a fair opportunity for any person or organisation referenced in our coverage to respond, and we publish relevant responses or rebuttals when warranted.
Accountability
SwaLay Digital holds itself accountable to its readers and the broader community. We welcome feedback, criticism, and suggestions from our readers. We publish corrections promptly and transparently in accordance with our Corrections Policy. We regularly review and update our editorial policies to reflect best practices in journalism and publishing.
Compliance with Law
All content published by SwaLay Digital complies with applicable laws of India, including but not limited to the Information Technology Act, 2000, the Copyright Act, 1957, the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, the Press Council Act, 1978, and all applicable regulations governing digital media in India.
Contact
For questions about our Code of Ethics, or to report a potential ethical violation, contact us at mytalent@talantoncore.in.