The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has blocked five OTT platforms for allegedly streaming obscene and pornographic content, marking a fresh crackdown on digital streaming platforms in India. The platforms blocked include MoodXVIP, Koyal Playpro, Digi Movieplex, Feel, and Jugnu, as authorities tighten monitoring of online content across the country.
Why the government blocked these OTT platforms
Officials said the blocked platforms were hosting content that violated Indian obscenity laws, including explicit scenes, nudity, and sexually suggestive material. The Centre directed internet service providers to restrict access under the Information Technology Rules, 2021, and existing laws governing online content.
Section 69A of the Information Technology Act, 2000, gives the government the power to block online content for reasons related to public order, morality, and national security. Authorities also acted under Section 79(3)(b) of the IT Act, which empowers the government to direct intermediaries to remove unlawful content when they fail to comply with official notices.
The government said these rules are meant to maintain public decency, protect vulnerable users, and enforce ethical standards across digital platforms.
Earlier crackdown on OTT content
This is not the first time India has taken action against streaming platforms. In July last year, the Centre banned several apps and websites for allegedly streaming vulgar and pornographic content. Platforms such as ALTBalaji, ULLU, Big Shots App, Desiflix, Boomex, Navarasa Lite, and Gulab App were among those targeted.
Officials reportedly found these platforms in serious violation of Indian laws, with content containing prolonged sexually explicit scenes and nudity. Authorities described such material as pornographic in nature and said it violated cultural and legal standards.
Consultations before the ban
The latest blocking order followed consultations with multiple government ministries, including home affairs, women and child development, electronics and IT, and the department of legal affairs. Industry bodies such as FICCI and CII, along with experts in women and child rights, were also consulted before issuing the directive.
The government stated that the crackdown aims to protect audiences, especially minors, from harmful digital content and ensure responsible publishing practices in the OTT ecosystem.
FAQs
Q: Why were OTT platforms blocked recently?
A: The government blocked platforms for streaming explicit and pornographic content that violated Indian laws and IT Rules 2021.
Q: Which OTT platforms blocked were named in the latest order?
A: MoodXVIP, Koyal Playpro, Digi Movieplex, Feel, and Jugnu were among the platforms blocked.
Q: What law allows the government to block online content in India?
A: Section 69A of the IT Act, 2000, empowers the Centre to block online content for legal and security reasons.
Q: Will more OTT platforms blocked India obscene content in India in future?
A: Authorities have indicated that more platforms could face action if they violate digital content regulations.
