Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Jul 30: In a sweeping move to regulate online content and uphold cultural and legal norms, the Indian government has blocked access to 43 over-the-top (OTT) platforms for allegedly hosting obscene, violent, or culturally inappropriate material. Union Electronics and IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw informed the Lok Sabha of the decision on Wednesday, citing violations of the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021.

The crackdown is part of a broader effort to ensure OTT platforms comply with ethical standards and the law. “OTT platforms are obligated not to transmit any content that is prohibited by law,” Vaishnaw said in a written response. He added that platforms must follow age-based self-classification guidelines and implement effective parental controls to restrict access to content unsuitable for minors.

The 2021 IT Rules, framed under the IT Act, 2000, lay out a clear Code of Ethics for digital content providers. These rules require OTT platforms to take responsibility for the content they host, particularly regarding the depiction of nudity, sexual content, and violence.

The Minister further clarified that Section 79(3)(b) of the IT Act empowers the government to direct intermediaries to take down or disable access to unlawful content. Following this provision, the Ministry, in consultation with relevant government bodies, ordered the blocking of 43 platforms.

In a recent escalation, the government instructed Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to restrict public access to 25 OTT platforms last week, including some well-known names like Ullu, ALTT, and Desiflix. These platforms were reportedly found to be distributing content considered sexually explicit or in violation of Indian cultural standards.

Other blocked apps 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
• Triflicks

The government has also issued advisories to OTT platforms and their self-regulatory bodies, reminding them of their legal responsibilities and the need to adhere strictly to the IT Rules, 2021.

This move marks one of the most assertive actions taken by the Indian government to regulate digital entertainment content, reflecting growing concerns about online obscenity, misinformation, and the protection of children and cultural sensibilities.