The Indian government has recently blocked 18 OTT platforms for promoting obscene and vulgar content. This action was taken under the Information Technology (IT) Rules of 2021, which aim to regulate online content. Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting, L. Murugan, shared this information during a session in the Lok Sabha on December 18, 2024.
Details of the Blocked Platforms
Murugan confirmed that the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting took action to block these platforms on March 14, 2024. The OTT platforms were found to be displaying content that violated the guidelines for online publishers. Some of these platforms were even involved in airing pornographic material, which prompted the Ministry to step in and enforce the rules.
List of Blocked OTT Platforms
The following platforms have been blocked: Dreams Films, Voovi, Yessma, Uncut Adda, Tri Flicks, X Prime, Neon X VIP, Besharams, Hunters, Rabbit, Xtramood, Nuefliks, MoodX, Mojflix, Hot Shots VIP, Fugi, Chikooflix, and Prime Play.
IT Rules and Code of Ethics
The IT Rules of 2021 impose due diligence obligations on online content intermediaries, urging them to actively prevent the spread of harmful and inappropriate content. The rules also include a Code of Ethics for news publishers on digital media and those in charge of online curated content, which applies to platforms like OTT services. These provisions hold content distributors accountable for any violation of ethical guidelines.
The Minister further explained that these OTT platforms were blocked for violating these standards, and the action was coordinated with various intermediaries to ensure compliance. Murugan emphasized that the guidelines are in place to protect users and ensure that content aligns with India’s cultural and ethical values.
Oversight of Digital News Publishers
In addition to OTT content, the Code of Ethics also regulates digital news publishers. These publishers must follow the Norms of Journalistic Conduct outlined by the Press Council of India. Additionally, digital content must adhere to the Program Code specified under the Cable Television (Network Regulation Act, 1995). The IT Rules also cover news channels on platforms like YouTube, including channels like Bolta Hindustan and National Dastak, ensuring they comply with the regulations.
Follow Telugu Funda on trending Social Media Platforms for more Cinema, OTT, Political, And Sports updates
