Government Bans AltBalaji, Ullu Over Obscenity

Government Cracks Down on Obscene OTT Content

The Indian government has taken decisive action against 25 Over-The-Top (OTT) platforms, banning several apps and websites for allegedly broadcasting obscene content. This move, executed under the Information Technology Act, 2000, targets platforms like AltBalaji, Ullu, and Big Shots, which have been accused of displaying “indecent” portrayals of women. The Ministry of Information & Broadcasting previously issued an advisory in January, signaling a crackdown on obscene content across OTT and social media platforms.

The ban encompasses 26 apps and 14 websites, effectively blocking public access within India. This decision followed extensive consultations with various stakeholders, including the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), the Ministry of Women and Child Development (MWCD), the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), the Department of Legal Affairs (DoLA), industry bodies like FICCI and CII, as well as experts in women’s and children’s rights.

Aim of the Government Action

The government’s primary objective is to restrict the accessibility of obscene content online, particularly for minors. A source cited by PTI emphasized the importance of ensuring that “digital content remains within the bounds of decency and the law.” This action underscores the government’s commitment to maintaining a safe and responsible online environment.

List of Banned Apps

The following apps are among those that have been banned:

• AltBalaji
• Ullu
• Big Shots App
• Desiflix
• Boomex
• Navarasa Lite
• Gulab App
• Kangan App
• Bull App
• Jalva App
• Wow Entertainment
• Look Entertainment
• Hitprime
• Feneo
• ShowX
• Sol Talkies
• Adda TV
• HotX VIP
• Hulchul App
• MoodX
• NeonX VIP
• Fugi
• Mojflix
• Triflicks

Legal Basis and Further Directives

A report by StoryBoard18 revealed that internet service providers (ISPs) have been instructed to block public access to the specified apps and websites. This directive aligns with Section 79(3)(b) of the Information Technology Act, 2000, which stipulates that intermediaries forfeit their exemption from liability if they fail to comply with government orders to remove or disable access to unlawful content.

Previous Actions and Broader Context

This ban builds upon a previous action in March 2024, which saw 18 OTT platforms banned for allegedly displaying obscene content. These platforms were found to be in violation of the IT Act, the Indian Penal Code, and the Indecent Representation of Women (Prohibition) Act. The government also blocked access to 19 websites, 10 apps, and 57 social media accounts associated with these OTT platforms.

Impact and Future Implications

The recent crackdown signals a more stringent approach to content regulation within the Indian digital space. It highlights the government’s willingness to take decisive action against platforms that fail to adhere to established legal and ethical standards. The long-term impact of these bans remains to be seen, but it is likely to prompt OTT platforms to adopt more robust content moderation policies and practices.