OTT Platforms Rules: The Central Government has reaffirmed its dedication to fostering safer digital environments for children by imposing stricter safeguards on Over-The-Top (OTT) platforms, aiming to prevent access to content unsuitable for younger audiences.
In response to a question raised by Dr Kanimozhi in the Rajya Sabha, Dr L. Murugan, the Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting, underscored the Government's commitment to promoting ethical practices in digital media, while also safeguarding the freedom of speech guaranteed under Article 19(1) of the Constitution.
Referring to the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, Murugan highlighted key provisions, particularly Part-III, which establishes a Code of Ethics for online curated content publishers, including those operating OTT platforms.
As stipulated by these rules, OTT platforms are required to categorise content into five age-based groups, implement stringent parental controls and viewer verification systems to restrict access to age-inappropriate material, and ensure no content that is prohibited by law is broadcast.
The rules further stipulate that publishers of news and current affairs content must adhere to the Programme Code under the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995, and the Press Council of India’s Norms of Journalistic Conduct, which prohibit the dissemination of false, misleading, or incomplete information in digital media.
To ensure compliance, the IT Rules establish a three-tier grievance redressal mechanism:
- Level I: Publisher
- Level II: Self-regulatory body of publishers
- Level III: Oversight by the Central Government
The minister explained that this framework strikes a balance between accountability and press freedom.
Under Part II of the IT Rules, intermediaries such as Facebook and YouTube are required to take steps to curb the spread of manifestly false or misleading information.
To support this effort, the government established a Fact Check Unit (FCU) within the Press Information Bureau in November 2019. This unit verifies information pertaining to the Central Government and issues corrections through official social media platforms.
ALSO READ: IndiGo Rs 10,000 Voucher: How To Claim Your Free Voucher And Get A Refund For Cancelled Flights
Moreover, under Section 69A of the IT Act, the Government holds the authority to block websites, posts, or social media accounts that pose a threat to India’s sovereignty, security, or public order.