Centre Blocks 5 OTT Platforms Over ‘Obscene’ Content
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) on Tuesday blocked five OTT platforms for allegedly streaming obscene and vulgar content. The action followed due procedure under Section 69A of the Information Technology Act. The blocked platforms include MoodXVIP, Koyal Playpro, Digi Movieplex, Feel, and Jugnu. Officials said the content violated Indian laws and crossed acceptable standards of public decency.
Legal Basis for the Crackdown
The government directed internet service providers to block access under the IT Rules, 2021, along with existing obscenity laws. Section 69A of the Information Technology Act, 2000 empowers the Centre to block online content in the interest of sovereignty, public order, and decency. Additionally, authorities invoked Section 79(3)(b), which allows action when intermediaries fail to remove unlawful content after official notice. According to officials, several platforms ignored earlier warnings and continued streaming objectionable material.
Previous Bans and Continued Violations
This is not the first such action. In July last year, the Centre banned 25 OTT apps and websites for allegedly hosting pornographic content. Among them were ALTBalaji and Ullu. Despite warnings issued in September 2024 and reminders in February 2025, some platforms reportedly re-uploaded content using alternate domains. Investigations found that over 100 web series were removed from Ullu, yet some resurfaced in their original form. The ministry later intervened to pull down Ullu’s “House Arrest” series.
Wider Scrutiny of Digital Platforms
Officials stated that much of the blocked content contained sexual innuendo, explicit visuals, and prolonged scenes described as pornographic in nature. Many shows lacked meaningful storylines and focused heavily on explicit imagery. Before taking action, the MIB consulted multiple ministries, including home affairs, women and child development, and electronics and IT. Industry bodies such as Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry and Confederation of Indian Industry also participated in discussions. The move signals stricter oversight of OTT platforms as the government intensifies monitoring of digital content.
