Government asks streaming platforms to run checks over obscene content: Report

By Sheetal On Jul 14, 2023

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The government has asked Netflix, Disney, and other streaming platforms to review the content as per obscenity and violence measures before airing it live, as per sources. The proposal was summoned in a meeting at the Information and Broadcasting Ministry on the 20^th of June.

The OTT platforms had contested the issue and objected to it which had led up to no decision formulated as such. The ministry has expressed its concerns over the vulgar and obscene content being shown on its platforms. It is also being supported by the Members of Parliament, the general public, and certain citizen groups.

Netflix and Amazon have grown immensely in the past few years and will continue to flourish with the great reach of diverse content. Apparently, film stars have also started debuting on OTT platforms and doing a splendid job. Though, some of the time the actors have been criticized for the portrayal of vulgar or obscene content that is offensive.

Many films in Indian cinema are reviewed by the Central Board of Film Certification before their release. The Censor board then decides which films should be aired on screen and the type of audience the movies caters to. However, there is no such restriction on the OTT platforms.

During the meeting held in June, it was advised by the representatives to have a panel of experts review their content. The independent jury would then eliminate the inappropriate content. Though, the streaming bodies have rejected this proposal, but the officials have asked them to consider the idea.

The government also emphasized the need for a “more practical approach” which will enable the streaming content along with the international content to have some sort of linkage to the code of ethics. As the code already states that any kind of content evoking violence for the matter of sentimental or religious reasons should not be showcased.

The meeting on the 20^th of June was attended by Netflix, Amazon, Disney, Viacom18, Apple TV, and Reliance’s broadcast unit.

The officials have even asked the portals to set up an independent panel that would set the ratings for the content and designates the age limit. To this, the platforms have said that they would set parental controls over obscene content and special care will be taken for the depiction of the international content.