In an unprecedented move, the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting (I&B) of India, led by Union Minister Shri Anurag Singh Thakur, has taken stringent action against 18 Over The Top (OTT) platforms, accused of publishing content deemed obscene, vulgar, and in some cases, pornographic. This crackdown extends to disabling 19 websites, 10 apps 7 on Google Play Store and 3 on Apple App Store alongside 57 social media accounts linked to these platforms, effectively blocking their access within the Indian territory.
The Ministry of Information & Broadcasting (I&B) of India plays a pivotal role in the formulation and administration of the rules, regulations, and policies related to information, broadcasting, the press, and films in India. Acting as the apex body for the dissemination of information and the regulation of media practices, it oversees a broad array of media enterprises, including television, radio, films, print media, and online content. The ministry is instrumental in nurturing the growth and development of the media and entertainment sectors in India, by fostering a conducive environment for creativity, innovation, and ethical standards. Through its various departments and autonomous bodies such as the Central Board of Film Certification, the Press Information Bureau, and Doordarshan, it ensures the balanced and responsible flow of information to the public, while also safeguarding the freedom of the press and maintaining cultural sensitivity. Additionally, the ministry plays a crucial role in promoting the heritage and culture of India through cinema and broadcasting, enhancing the country’s soft power on a global stage.
Government’s Firm Stance Against Obscenity
The decision materialized after Shri Thakur’s announcement on 12th March 2024, underlining the ministry’s commitment to safeguarding public morals and cultural integrity. Shri Thakur has been vocal about the necessity for platforms to steer clear from disseminating content that borders on the obscene or vulgar under the camouflage of ‘creative expression’. This action aligns with the provisions of the Information Technology Act, 2000, and was concluded following consultations with other government departments, including experts in media, entertainment, women’s, and children’s rights.
The Offensive Content
The platforms in question hosted content that was not only offensive but portrayed women in a derogatory and demeaning manner, featuring nudity, sexual acts in inappropriate scenarios, incestuous relationships, and overtly extended pornographic scenes without any thematic or societal value. This content stood in direct violation of Sections 67 and 67A of the IT Act, Section 292 of the IPC, and Section 4 of the Indecent Representation of Women (Prohibition) Act, 1986.
Platforms Under Scanner
The affected OTT platforms include:
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
Prime Play
Viewer Engagement on Social Media
Despite their questionable content, these platforms managed significant viewer engagement. Some apps garnered over 1 crore downloads, with others reaching more than 50 lakh downloads on the Google Play Store alone. Their social media strategy involved promoting trailers, scenes, and links to their content, accumulating over 32 lakh followers across platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), and YouTube.
Government’s Engagement and Regulatory Measures
In its bid to ensure a responsible OTT ecosystem, the Ministry of I&B has been actively engaging with OTT platforms and their self-regulatory bodies established under the IT Rules, 2021. Through meetings, webinars, and workshops, there’s a continuous effort to sensitize these entities about the content they publish.
Despite the crackdown, the government reaffirms its dedication to nurturing the OTT industry’s growth. Such commitment is evident through initiatives like the introduction of the Inaugural OTT Award for Web Series at the 54th International Film Festival of India, collaboration ventures, and advocating for a light-touch regulatory framework emphasizing self-regulation.
Conclusion
This decisive action by the Ministry of I&B marks a significant move towards cleansing the digital content landscape in India, ensuring that creativity and freedom of expression are not misused to publish content offensive and degrading to societal norms. It serves as a stark reminder to OTT platforms of their responsibilities and the fine line between creative liberty and cultural sensitivity.
The move draws a clear line in the sand, setting precedents for what is deemed acceptable in the rapidly growing digital content sphere. It underscores the government’s resolve to create a safe, respectful, and valued digital environment while remaining supportive of the digital entertainment industry’s potential and growth.
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