The Information & Broadcasting Ministry has asked OTT platforms to strictly adhere to code of ethics prescribed under IT Rules including age-based classification. This advisory came after the Ministry received complaints from Member of Parliaments, statutory organisations and public grievances about alleged spread of “obscene, pornographic or vulgar content” published by OTT platforms and Social Media.
It also asked self-regulatory bodies of OTT platforms to take action against those platforms that violate the code of ethics.
In its advisory, the Ministry pointed out that IT Rules, 2021 have the provision for a Code of Ethics for OTT platforms, and a three level institutional mechanism for redressal of grievances relating to violation of the Code of Ethics. It noted that the code requires that OTT platforms should not transmit any content that is prohibited by law and also undertake age-based classification of content. It also noted that they are required to implement an access control mechanism of “A” rated content by restricting its access by children and also exercise due caution and discretion.
Self-regulatory bodies
It reiterated that self-regulatory bodies are required to oversee and ensure that OTT platforms are in adherence with the code of ethics.
“Attention is also invited to the provisions of Indecent Representation of Women Act, 1986, Bhartiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS), 2023, Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSQ) Act, and Information Technology (IT) Act, 2000 wherein publication of obscene/pornographic content is a punishable offence,” the Ministry’s advisory added.
“ 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 of the age-based classification of content prescribed under the Code of Ethics. Further, Self-regulatory Bodies of OTT platforms are requested to take appropriate proactive action for violation of Code of Ethics by the platforms,” the Ministry’s advisory added.