The Indian Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (I&B) has blocked up to eighteen over-the-top (OTT) platforms for “publishing obscene, vulgar, and, in some instances, p*rn*graphic content.”
According to a ministry press release, OTT platforms have 19 websites, 10 apps (seven available on Google Play Store, three on Apple App Store), and 57 social media handles blocked nationwide.
List of 18 OTT platforms banned by Indian government
- MoodX
- Mojflix
- Hot Shots VIP
- Fugi
- Chikooflix
- Prime Play
- Uncut Adda
- Tri Flicks
- X Prime
- Neon X VIP
- Dreams Films
- Voovi
- Yessma
- Besharams
- Hunters
- Rabbit
- Xtramood
- Nuefliks
It is claimed that the content violates the Indian Penal Code, the Indecent Representation of Women (Prohibition) Act, and the IT Act.
According to the I&B release, Union Minister Anurag Thakur has underlined time and time again how platforms should not spread profanity, abuse, or obscenity under the pretense of “creative expression.”
During a meeting with representatives of over-the-top (OTT) players last year, Thakur reminded them that they must make sure their platform doesn’t spread abuse and vulgarity.
In a tweet, he stated, “OTT players have a responsibility of ensuring that their platform does not propagate vulgarity and abuse camouflaged as ‘creative expression’.”
He also requested that the platforms use this creative freedom to create content that is sensitive to India’s culture and refrain from demeaning it.
