This move aims to restrict access to content considered obscene or vulgar.
| Banned OTT Platforms |
|---|
| 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 |
Government Crackdown on Obscene Content: Action and Rationale
In a recent development, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting in India has taken decisive action against platforms hosting objectionable content. The ministry’s statement revealed the disabling of access to 19 websites, 10 apps (7 on Google Play Store and 3 on Apple App Store), and 57 associated social media accounts. This action, undertaken in coordination with various intermediaries, aims to curb the dissemination of content deemed “obscene,” “vulgar,” and, in some cases, “pornographic.”
Minister’s Emphasis on Responsibility
Union Minister for Information & Broadcasting, Anurag Singh Thakur, has emphasized the responsibility of these platforms to avoid promoting obscenity and vulgarity under the guise of ‘creative expression.’ His stance underscores the need for platforms to adhere to societal norms and ethical standards.
Legal Basis and Content Analysis
The decision to disable these platforms aligns with provisions of the Information Technology Act, 2000. The content hosted on these platforms was found to be prima facie in 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. Analysis revealed content depicting nudity, sexual acts, and inappropriate contexts, such as relationships between teachers and students and incestuous family relationships.
Magnitude of Impact
The impact of this action is substantial, with one OTT app amassing over 1 crore downloads and two others exceeding 50 lakh downloads on the Google Play Store. Additionally, the social media accounts associated with these platforms boasted a cumulative followership of over 32 lakh users. These platforms actively utilized social media to disseminate trailers, scenes, and links to attract audiences.
Government’s Commitment and Regulatory Framework
Despite the crackdown, the Government of India remains committed to fostering the growth of the OTT industry. Measures have been taken to promote the industry, including the introduction of the Inaugural OTT Award for Web Series and collaboration with OTT platforms. The establishment of a light-touch regulatory framework, emphasizing self-regulation under the IT Rules, 2021, reflects the government’s approach to balancing industry growth with societal norms.