Govt mandates safeguards over age-inappropriate content on OTT
The central government has reiterated its commitment towards ethical digital media practices while upholding the freedom of speech. In a significant move, the government has mandated that Over-the-Top (OTT) platforms implement strict guidelines to regulate age-inappropriate content. As per the 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 process, and ensure that no prohibited content is transmitted.
The move comes as a response to growing concerns over the lack of regulation on OTT platforms, which have become increasingly popular in recent years. With the rise of streaming services, there has been a significant increase in the consumption of digital content, including movies, TV shows, and original series. However, this has also led to concerns over the availability of age-inappropriate content, including explicit language, violence, and nudity.
The government’s decision to mandate safeguards over age-inappropriate content on OTT platforms is aimed at protecting children and ensuring that they are not exposed to content that is not suitable for their age group. The guidelines require OTT platforms to classify content into five age-based categories: U (Universal), U/A 7+ (Parental guidance for children below 7 years), U/A 13+ (Parental guidance for children below 13 years), U/A 16+ (Parental guidance for children below 16 years), and A (Adult content).
OTT platforms are also required to implement strict parental controls and viewer verification processes to restrict access to age-inappropriate content. This includes verifying the age of the viewer through a reliable method, such as a government-issued ID or a parental consent form. Additionally, OTT platforms are required to ensure that no prohibited content is transmitted, including content that promotes violence, hatred, or obscenity.
The government’s move to regulate OTT platforms has been welcomed by parents and child rights groups, who have been advocating for stricter guidelines to protect children from age-inappropriate content. The guidelines are also expected to have a positive impact on the overall quality of content available on OTT platforms, as producers and creators will be incentivized to create content that is suitable for all age groups.
However, some critics have argued that the guidelines may be too restrictive and could stifle creativity and freedom of expression. They argue that the guidelines may lead to self-censorship, as producers and creators may be reluctant to create content that may be deemed age-inappropriate. Others have also raised concerns over the effectiveness of the guidelines, arguing that they may be difficult to enforce and may not be able to keep pace with the rapidly evolving digital landscape.
Despite these concerns, the government’s decision to mandate safeguards over age-inappropriate content on OTT platforms is a significant step towards promoting ethical digital media practices. The guidelines are expected to have a positive impact on the digital media industry, as they will promote a culture of responsibility and accountability among OTT platforms and content creators.
In conclusion, the central government’s decision to mandate safeguards over age-inappropriate content on OTT platforms is a welcome move that aims to protect children and promote ethical digital media practices. The guidelines are expected to have a positive impact on the digital media industry, as they will promote a culture of responsibility and accountability among OTT platforms and content creators. As the digital media landscape continues to evolve, it is essential that we prioritize the well-being and safety of children and ensure that they are not exposed to content that is not suitable for their age group.
The government’s commitment to upholding freedom of speech while promoting ethical digital media practices is a significant step towards creating a safe and responsible digital media ecosystem. As we move forward, it is essential that we continue to monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of these guidelines and make adjustments as needed to ensure that they remain relevant and effective in promoting a culture of responsibility and accountability in the digital media industry.
Source: https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx
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