Major Action by I&B Ministry: Five OTT Platforms Banned
Centre Blocks 5 OTT Platforms Over Obscene Content: In a significant crackdown on digital content, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has ordered the blocking of five OTT platforms for allegedly streaming obscene and objectionable material.
According to official sources, the platforms — MoodXVIP, Koyal PlayPro, Digi Movieplex, Feel, and Jugnu — have been directed to cease operations in India. The government stated that the action was taken after following due legal procedure and thorough review.
Officials said the content hosted on these platforms was found to be in violation of established norms related to obscenity and public decency. While reiterating that digital platforms enjoy creative freedom, the ministry emphasized that such freedom must operate within the framework of Indian laws and social standards.
Action Under IT Rules
The blocking order has reportedly been implemented under the provisions of the Information Technology Act, 2000, particularly Section 69A, which empowers the government to restrict access to online content in the interest of sovereignty, public order, and decency. The action also aligns with the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021.
Under this process, internet service providers (ISPs) have been instructed to block access to the websites and apps of the identified platforms. As a result, these OTT services will no longer be accessible within India.
Government’s Stand
Government officials clarified that the objective of this move is to maintain public decorum, safeguard national interest, and ensure ethical standards in digital publishing. Authorities also indicated that monitoring of online content will continue, and strict action will be taken against platforms found violating the law.
The development signals the Centre’s firm stance on regulating online streaming platforms and ensuring compliance with statutory guidelines in the rapidly growing digital media space.
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