The news channel of the state-run Doordarshan, DD news has a new logo has sparked debate mere 48 hours after unveiling of the new logo.

The new logo has changed it colour from ruby red to saffron, and due to the change the national broadcaster has come under fire from Opposition parties for alleged "saffronisation".

While the broadcaster played down the issue as a mere change of visual aesthetic, leaders of Opposition parties questioned the need for effecting the change right ahead of the Lok Sabha polls.

The broadcaster, according to a report by the Indian Express citing Gaurav Dwivedi, its chief executive officer (CEO), said the new logo merely reflects a change of visual aesthetic.

However, leaders of opposition parties questioned the timing of unveiling the new logo, ahead of the Lok Sabha polls.

On Tuesday evening, DD News posted on its official X handle a video of its new logo along with a message: "While our values remain the same, we are now available in a new avatar. Get ready for a news journey like never before. Experience the all-new DD News!"

"We have the courage to put: Accuracy over speed, Facts over claims, Truth over sensationalism…Because if it is on DD News, it is the truth! DD News - Bharosa Sach Ka," it added.

Soon after, TMC Rajya Sabha MP Jawhar Sircar, who was the CEO of Prasar Bharati between 2012 and 2014, said, "National broadcaster Doordarshan colours its historic flagship logo in saffron! As its ex-CEO, I have been watching its saffronisation with alarm and feel - it's not Prasar Bharati any more, it's Prachar (publicity) Bharati!"

Talking to The Indian Express, Sircar said, "It's not just the logo, everything about the public broadcaster is saffron now. While the programmes and events of the ruling party get maximum airtime, Opposition parties hardly get any space now."

Sircar called it "visual entrapment" being affected by the regime. He also gave the example of the Rajya Sabha hall in the new Parliament going saffron, from maroon in the old building.