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Tag: Nishikant Dubey

  • I&B ministry mulls new legal framework to regulate digital content

    I&B ministry mulls new legal framework to regulate digital content

    MUMBAI:The ministry of information and broadcasting is examining existing laws and contemplating a new legal framework to regulate “harmful” content on digital platforms amidst rising concerns over obscenity and violence, officials said.

    In its response to the parliamentary standing committee on communications and information technology, headed by BJP member of parliament Nishikant Dubey, the ministry acknowledged growing societal concern that constitutional freedom of expression was being misused to showcase objectionable content on digital platforms.

    The ministry’s scrutiny comes in the wake of recent controversies, including inflammatory comments by social media influencer Ranveer Allahbadia. Though he later apologised and received protection from arrest from the supreme court, the incident sparked widespread condemnation and criminal cases.

    Unlike traditional print and electronic media, which operate under specific regulations, new media services such as over-the-top (OTT) platforms and YouTube currently lack a dedicated regulatory framework. This regulatory gap has intensified calls for legislative reform.

    The ministry recently issued an advisory to online curated content publishers, emphasising strict adherence to the code of ethics prescribed under the Information Technology Rules, 2021. The advisory particularly stressed age-based content classification and implementation of access control mechanisms for adult-rated content.

    “This ministry has received references from honourable members of parliament, representations from statutory organisations, and public grievances regarding the alleged spread of obscene, pornographic and vulgar content,” the ministry stated in its communication to OTT platforms.

    The move follows expressions of concern from various quarters, including high courts, the supreme court, and statutory bodies such as the national commission for women. While some worry about potential censorship, recent controversies have strengthened demands for more robust content regulation.

    The ministry has committed to submitting a detailed proposal following thorough deliberations on the matter. The initiative aims to balance freedom of expression with responsible content creation in the digital space.

  • Parliamentary panel to review OTT content amidst regulatory debate

    Parliamentary panel to review OTT content amidst regulatory debate

    MUMBAI: Imagine this: you’re unwinding with your favorite show, only to frantically fumble for the remote as a scene unfolds that you’d rather your child never see—graphic violence, explicit language, or worse, nudity. Frustrated by the glamorisation of crime and violence in thrillers that could inspire the impressionable? It’s a moment every parent dreads, and a dilemma households across the country face in today’s era of on-demand entertainment.

    But here’s the big news: relief might finally be on the way.

    In a move poised to reshape how we consume digital content, the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Communications and Information Technology is stepping in. Mark your calendars for 20 December, when the committee will meet with leading industry bodies to tackle the hot-button issue of content regulation on OTT platforms. As debates intensify between calls for stricter government oversight and advocates of self-regulation under the IT Rules, 2021, the stage is set for what could be a landmark decision in the OTT landscape.

    This is a moment of mixed emotions—hope for a more family-friendly streaming experience, but also trepidation over potential restrictions that might stifle creativity. One thing is certain: change is brewing, and all eyes are now on the committee’s crucial meeting.

    The committee, chaired by Lok Sabha member Nishikant Dubey, has invited organisations such as the Indian Motion Picture Producers’ Association and the Motion Picture Association of America (India office) to present their views. This dialogue follows Information and Broadcasting minister Ashwini Vaishnaw’s request to prioritise strengthening laws governing social media and OTT platforms.

    Dubey emphasised the urgency of addressing content concerns, particularly regarding portrayals of women, obscenity, and vulgarity. “OTT platforms often feature content unsuitable for family viewing. Our meeting with industry stakeholders will address these pressing issues,” he said.

    Last month, Vaishnaw highlighted cultural disparities between India and foreign regions housing platforms like Netflix and Prime Video. He stressed the need for stricter regulations, citing examples such as Netflix’s portrayal of the 1999 Indian Airlines hijacking in IC-814: The Kandahar Hijack. The series faced criticism for inaccuracies, prompting Netflix to update its disclaimers.

    Industry bodies such as the Indian Digital Media Industry Foundation (IDMIF) and the Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI) have pushed for retaining the current self-regulatory framework. Both organisations argue that platform-level self-regulation under IT Rules ensures creative freedom while adhering to constitutional boundaries.

    In August, IDMIF and IAMAI assured MIB that their members comply with the code of ethics, avoiding content harmful to India’s sovereignty, security, and public order. They also highlighted caution in portraying racial or religious groups.

    As the government explores options like pre-certification for OTT content, industry bodies have urged against additional oversight. They advocate for maintaining the balance between creative expression and compliance.

    The 20 December meeting is poised to shape the future regulatory framework for OTT platforms in India, balancing creative freedom, cultural sensitivities, and legal accountability.