New Delhi (National Times): The Information and Broadcasting Ministry has issued a stern advisory to OTT platforms and social media channels, urging them to adhere to the Code of Ethics outlined in the IT Rules (2021). The directive emphasizes the importance of self-regulation and age-based content classification, particularly for material rated ‘A’ (Adult), to prevent children from accessing inappropriate content.
The warning comes in the wake of the controversy surrounding the YouTube comedy show India’s Got Latent, where podcaster Ranveer Allahbadia allegedly made obscene remarks. The episode was available on YouTube until the government ordered its removal following complaints about vulgar and explicit content on OTT platforms.
Government Emphasizes Content Compliance
According to the official notification, the ministry has received multiple complaints regarding the spread of obscene, pornographic, and vulgar content on digital platforms. It reminded OTT platforms of their legal obligations, which include:
✔ Prohibiting content that violates the law
✔ Strictly implementing age-based content classification
✔ Ensuring self-regulatory bodies oversee content compliance
The notification further advised OTT platforms to strengthen compliance measures and uphold the Code of Ethics when publishing content.
Supreme Court’s Stand on Online Content Regulation
The advisory follows sharp criticism from the Supreme Court, which is hearing a plea by Ranveer Allahbadia seeking the consolidation of police cases filed against him. The court expressed concern over unregulated online content, stating it would not allow a regulatory vacuum.
“The way online platforms are being misused… the government must act. If not, we will step in,” the bench, comprising Justice Surya Kant and Justice N Kotiswar Singh, observed.
Parliamentary Panel Seeks Stronger Digital Content Laws
Following the Supreme Court’s remarks, a parliamentary panel has asked the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology to evaluate the efficacy of existing regulations and recommend potential amendments to ensure greater accountability for online platforms.
The controversy surrounding India’s Got Latent has reignited discussions about OTT content regulation, with the government likely to introduce stricter guidelines to curb offensive and explicit material in the digital space.
