Government Takes Action Against Obscene Content on OTT Platforms

In a significant move to regulate digital content, the Indian government has ordered Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to block access to 25 Over-the-Top (OTT) platforms, including well-known names such as Ullu, ALTT, and Desiflix. This decision is part of a broader effort to curb the spread of content deemed unlawful and obscene under Indian law.

Legal Framework and Compliance

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) issued a notification emphasizing the responsibility of intermediaries to remove or disable access to unlawful information. This directive is in accordance with the Information Technology Act, 2000, and the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021. The government aims to ensure that digital content adheres to Indian legal and cultural standards by targeting sexually explicit material.

List of Banned Platforms

The banned platforms include Big Shots App, Boomex, Navarasa Lite, Gulab App, Kangan App, Bull App, Jalva App, Wow Entertainment, Look Entertainment, Hitprime, Feneo, ShowX, Sol Talkies, Adda TV, HotX VIP, Hulchul App, MoodX, NeonX VIP, Fugi, Mojflix, and Triflicks. These platforms have been found in violation of several laws such as Section 67 and Section 67A of the Information Technology Act, 2000; Section 294 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023; and Section 4 of the Indecent Representation of Women (Prohibition) Act, 1986.

Implementation and Enforcement

The government has directed ISPs to disable or remove public access to these platforms within India. Additionally, MIB has communicated with the Director (DS-II) of the Department of Telecommunications to ensure compliance by ISPs. This action underscores the government’s commitment to enforcing digital content regulations.

Judicial Perspective on Digital Content Regulation

In April, the Supreme Court addressed a petition seeking a ban on sexually explicit content on OTT platforms and social media. While acknowledging the issue’s importance, the court indicated that it falls outside its domain and urged executive action. The Solicitor General highlighted existing regulations and potential further measures under consideration.