Why Did the Government Ban OTT Platforms Like Ullu, ALTT, and Desiflix?
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Synopsis
The Indian government takes a bold stance against OTT platforms, enforcing a ban on 25 services, including popular names like Ullu and Desiflix, in an effort to eliminate unlawful and obscene content. This move raises questions about digital content regulation in the country.
Key Takeaways
- Government intervention in digital content regulation.
- Blocking of **25 OTT platforms** for obscene content.
- Legal grounds for banning include multiple acts.
- ISPs are responsible for compliance.
- Ongoing discussions in the Supreme Court about content regulation.
New Delhi, July 25 (NationPress) In a decisive move to address illegal and obscene content, the government has instructed Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to block public access to 25 OTT platforms, including notable names such as Ullu, ALTT, and Desiflix.
A notification from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) highlighted that intermediaries have a responsibility to eliminate or obstruct access to unlawful materials as mandated by the Information Technology Act, 2000, and the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021.
This action seeks to prevent the spread of content that is considered sexually explicit and in violation of Indian legal and cultural standards.
The platforms being banned include Big Shots App, Boomex, Navarasa Lite, Gulab App, Kangan App, Bull App, Jalva App, Wow Entertainment, Look Entertainment, Hitprime, Feneo, ShowX, Sol Talkies, Adda TV, HotX VIP, Hulchul App, MoodX, NeonX VIP, Fugi, Mojflix, and Triflicks.
These platforms have been found to violate several laws, including Section 67 and Section 67A of the Information Technology Act, 2000, Section 294 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, and Section 4 of the Indecent Representation of Women (Prohibition) Act, 1986.
The government has clearly instructed ISPs to disable or revoke public access to these websites within India.
According to media reports, “MIB has also notified the Director (DS-II), Department of Telecommunications, requesting compliance assistance from ISPs.” This action underscores the government's commitment to upholding digital content regulations and ensuring compliance with the nation's laws.
In response to a petition seeking a ban on sexually explicit content on OTT and social media, the Supreme Court expressed, “It’s not our domain, you do something.” Nevertheless, the Justices emphasized the necessity for executive action, with the Solicitor General indicating that existing regulations and additional measures are under review.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the government's role in regulating digital content. While the move to ban platforms like Ullu and ALTT reflects a commitment to uphold legal standards, it also raises questions about censorship and the balance between regulation and freedom of expression in the digital age.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the reason for banning these OTT platforms?
The government aims to curb the distribution of **sexually explicit** content that violates Indian laws and cultural norms.
How many OTT platforms have been banned?
A total of **25 OTT platforms** have been instructed to be blocked by the government.
What laws are these platforms violating?
The banned platforms have been found in violation of the **Information Technology Act, 2000**, and other related laws.
Who is responsible for enforcing this ban?
Internet Service Providers (ISPs) are tasked with disabling access to these platforms as per the government directive.
What can users expect from this ban?
Users will no longer have access to the banned OTT platforms within India, impacting their viewing options.
