Indian govt asks OTT platforms to scrutinise content for obscenity, violence: report

The streaming platforms were asked to filter content during a meeting held on June 20 at the Information and Broadcasting Ministry.

However, the streaming companies, also known as OTT (Over-The-Top) platforms, expressed objections, and no final decision was reached during the meeting, as stated in the government minutes and confirmed by an industry source who participated in the discussions, said the report.

The ministry "highlighted concerns regarding obscene and vulgar content on OTT platforms, as expressed by Members of Parliament, citizen groups, and the general public," said the minutes, which are not public but were seen by Reuters.

Netflix and Amazon enjoy a huge viewership in India, which is set to expand into a $7 billion market for the sector by 2027, according to Media Partners Asia.

Unlike movies released in theatres, streamed content is not reviewed and certified by a government-appointed board.

During the meeting, the government emphasised the importance of adopting a "more proactive approach" to ensure that streaming content, including international content, adheres to a designated code of ethics, as indicated by the meeting minutes.

The existing code already requires providers to exercise caution regarding content that may incite violence or be sensitive from a religious standpoint.

Attendees at the meeting included Amazon, Disney, Netflix, Reliance's broadcast unit, Viacom18, and Apple TV.