The central government has banned over 25 OTT platforms for airing sexually explicit and obscene content. The blocked digital services include websites and applications like Ullu, ALTT, NeonX VIP, Gulab App, Big Shots, Desiflix, Kangan App, Hulchul App and MoodX among others.
As per reports, the action was taken by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) in consultation with the Ministry of Home Affairs, MeitY, Department of Legal Affairs (DoLA), and industry bodies such as FICCI and CII, along with women and child rights experts.
Officials argued that there was no presence of a storyline, theme or message in the shows on these platforms. Along with that, the depiction included nudity and sex in some inappropriate context of family relationships. As per the government, the content violated section 67 of the IT Act, section 292 of the IPC, and section 4 of the Indecent Representation of Women (Prohibition) Act, 1986.
Earlier, the web-series, House Arrest was removed by Ullu last year after government intervention. This year in February, an advisory was issued to OTT platforms to adhere the IT Rules, 2021 and laws related to obscenity.