Govt bans 25 OTT apps & websites for streaming 'soft porn' content

The Indian government has taken decisive action by banning around 24 to 25 OTT applications and websites accused of disseminating sexually explicit content. The Ministry of Information & Broadcasting (MIB) has directed Internet Service Providers (ISPs) throughout the country to block these platforms, citing violations of IT laws and decency regulations. Among the apps affected by the ban are ULLU, ALTT, Desiflix, Big Shots App, Boomex, MoodX, NeonX VIP, Mojflix, Triflicks, Gulab App, Hulchul, Look Entertainment, Hitprime, HotX VIP, ShowX, and several others. These platforms have been criticized for streaming what has been described as 'soft porn' under the guise of erotic web series, lacking adequate moderation. The government's action points to multiple breaches of legal provisions, including Section 79(3)(b) of the IT Act, which states that digital intermediaries forfeit their safe harbour protection if they do not respond to government notifications regarding the removal of illegal content. Additionally, the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, particularly Rule 7, hold these platforms accountable for failing to comply with content regulations. This move follows a precedent set in March 2024, when the MIB previously blocked 18 OTT platforms for similar offenses. That round of enforcement resulted in 19 website shutdowns, 10 mobile app removals (seven from the Google Play Store and three from the Apple App Store), and the disabling of 57 social media accounts linked to platforms such as Dreams Films, Voovi, Hunters, Besharams, Rabbit, Xtramood, Chikooflix, and Hot Shots VIP. Regulatory bodies have also voiced concerns over these platforms. The National Commission for Women (NCW) summoned representatives from ULLU Digital after a web series titled House Arrest was criticized for allegedly promoting incestuous themes and objectifying women. The NCW expressed alarm over the potential impact of such content on children, warning of dire consequences. Furthermore, the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) has raised alarms about minors being exposed to explicit content on OTT platforms, advocating for stricter regulations and enforcement measures. Union Minister for Information & Broadcasting Anurag Singh Thakur has repeatedly warned OTT platforms against exploiting creative freedom to promote obscenity, stating, "Creative freedom does not mean spreading vulgarity and abusing Indian cultural values." The government continues to stress the importance of adhering to established content guidelines and self-regulatory norms, indicating that failure to comply could result in legal repercussions and de-platforming.