Govt Mandates Safeguards Over Age-Inappropriate Content on OTT
The central government has reiterated its commitment towards ethical digital media practices while upholding the fundamental right to freedom of speech. In a significant move, the government has mandated OTT (Over-The-Top) platforms to implement stringent safeguards to prevent the dissemination of age-inappropriate content. As per the newly introduced norms, OTT platforms are required to classify content into five age-based categories, restrict access to age-inappropriate content by implementing strict parental controls and viewer verification processes, and ensure that no prohibited content is transmitted.
The move is aimed at protecting children and young adults from exposure to explicit, violent, or disturbing content that may have a negative impact on their mental and emotional well-being. The government has emphasized the need for OTT platforms to exercise responsibility and self-regulation in the dissemination of content, while also ensuring that the freedom of speech and expression is not compromised.
Classification of Content
As per the new guidelines, OTT platforms are required to classify content into five age-based categories: U (Universal), U/A 7+, U/A 13+, U/A 16+, and A (Adult). The classification will be based on the content’s theme, tone, language, and visuals, and will help parents and guardians make informed decisions about what their children can watch. The classification will also enable OTT platforms to implement age-based restrictions and parental controls, ensuring that children are not exposed to content that is not suitable for their age group.
Parental Controls and Viewer Verification
To prevent children from accessing age-inappropriate content, OTT platforms are required to implement strict parental controls and viewer verification processes. Parents and guardians will be able to set up accounts for their children, with controls and restrictions tailored to their age group. The viewer verification process will involve verifying the age of the viewer through a government-issued ID or other reliable means. This will ensure that children are not able to access content that is not intended for their age group, even if they try to bypass parental controls.
Prohibited Content
The government has also mandated OTT platforms to ensure that no prohibited content is transmitted. Prohibited content includes child pornography, graphic violence, hate speech, and content that promotes terrorism or violence. OTT platforms will be required to have in place robust content moderation policies and procedures to detect and remove prohibited content. They will also be required to report any instances of prohibited content to the relevant authorities.
Self-Regulation and Accountability
The government has emphasized the need for OTT platforms to exercise self-regulation and accountability in the dissemination of content. OTT platforms will be required to establish an internal grievance redressal mechanism, which will enable viewers to report complaints about content. The mechanism will be required to be transparent, efficient, and responsive, with clear guidelines and timelines for resolving complaints.
Implications and Impact
The new guidelines are expected to have a significant impact on the OTT industry, with major players such as Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Hotstar required to comply with the new norms. The move is expected to lead to a more responsible and ethical approach to content creation and dissemination, with OTT platforms prioritizing the well-being and safety of their viewers. The guidelines are also expected to promote a culture of self-regulation and accountability in the industry, with OTT platforms taking proactive steps to prevent the dissemination of age-inappropriate content.
Conclusion
The central government’s decision to mandate safeguards over age-inappropriate content on OTT platforms is a significant step towards promoting ethical digital media practices. The new guidelines will help protect children and young adults from exposure to explicit, violent, or disturbing content, while also ensuring that the freedom of speech and expression is not compromised. The move is expected to have a positive impact on the OTT industry, with major players required to comply with the new norms. As the OTT industry continues to grow and evolve, it is essential that platforms prioritize the well-being and safety of their viewers, and take proactive steps to prevent the dissemination of age-inappropriate content.
News Source: https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx
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