50 OTT platforms blocked in past two years, says Minister, Pg14

Key Highlights:

• The Indian government has blocked 50 Over-the-Top (OTT) platforms over the past two years.
• The platforms were disabled for public access due to displaying obscene content and violating the Information Technology Act and other applicable laws.
• Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw confirmed this action in a written response to a Lok Sabha question.
• The IT (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules have been notified to establish a regulatory mechanism for digital media and OTT platforms.

Detailed Insights:

• The blocking of OTT platforms is part of the government's broader initiative to ensure an open, safe, trusted, and accountable internet for all users, particularly children.
• The Information Technology Act, 2000 serves as India's foundational legislation for cyber activities, including electronic commerce and cybercrime.
• Section 69A of the Information Technology Act, 2000 grants the government powers to block public access to information deemed prejudicial to national sovereignty, security, or public order.
• The IT (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021 mandate a three-tier grievance redressal mechanism for content-related complaints.
• These rules require OTT platforms to self-classify content into age-based categories and implement parental locks for restricted content.
• Intermediaries are obligated to remove unlawful content, such as that depicting nudity or sexual acts, within 24 hours of receiving a complaint.
• The Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023 and the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act, 2025 further strengthen the legal framework for online safety and digital well-being.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Information Technology Act, 2000: India's primary legislation governing electronic commerce, digital transactions, and cybercrime.
• IT (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021: Regulations under the Information Technology Act, 2000 that provide a framework for content classification, grievance redressal, and user safety on digital media and OTT platforms.
• Over-the-Top (OTT) Platforms: Services that deliver video, audio, and other media content directly to viewers over the internet, bypassing traditional broadcast or cable providers.