I&B Ministry issues advisory to OTT platforms after multiple complaints about 'vulgar content'

New Delhi: Amid increasing complaints about transmission of obscene, pornographic and vulgar content, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has warned OTT platforms against transmitting content that is prohibited by the law.

In an advisory to over-the-top (OTT) platforms and self-regulatory bodies on Wednesday, the Ministry asked them to strictly adhere to the Code of Ethics prescribed under the Information Technology Rules-2021 while publishing content, including stricter adherence to the age-based classification of content.

The advisory said the Ministry has received "references" from MPs, "representations" from statutory organisations and "public grievances" regarding the "spread of obscene, pornographic and vulgar content" on online curated content (OTT platforms) and social media.

"In view of the above it is advised that the OTT platforms adhere to the various provisions of applicable laws, and the Code of Ethics prescribed under IT Rules, 2021 while publishing content on their platforms, including stricter adherence to the age-based classification of content prescribed under the Code of Ethics," it said.

It said the Code of Ethics requires OTT platforms not to transmit any content that is prohibited by law, undertake age-based classification of content, based on general guidelines provided in the Schedule to the Rules, implement access control mechanism for 'A' rated content to restrict access to such content by a child, and also exercise due caution and discretion.

"Self regulatory bodies of OTT platforms are requested to take appropriate proactive action for violation of the Code of Ethics by the platforms," the advisory said adding the Rules provide that such bodies should oversee and ensure the alignment and adherence by the OTT platforms to the Code.

The Supreme Court had recently suggested regulation of content on social media platforms while flagging the "vacuum" in law when it comes to sharing content on platforms such as YouTube.