The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (I&B) issued an Advisory reiterating the need for Publishers of Online Curated Content (OTT Platforms) to exercise caution regarding sensitive content. The Ministry advised OTT platforms to take note of the advisory before the publication or transmission of any film or web series, specifically mentioning biopics and documentaries on gangsters and criminals.
Criteria for Caution
The Advisory reiterates guidance originally issued on October 22, 2021, and requests self-regulatory bodies to advise their associated OTT platforms to exercise due caution and discretion, particularly in relation to content that:
- Affects the sovereignty and integrity of India.
- Threatens, endangers, or jeopardizes the security of the State.
- Is detrimental to India’s friendly relations with foreign countries.
- Is likely to incite violence or disturb the maintenance of public order.
The original 2021 communication specifically requested caution regarding content, “specially content which originates from foreign countries”. This guidance is rooted in the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, notified by the Government of India on February 25, 2021.