Govt Mandates Safeguards over Age-Inappropriate Content on OTT
The rapid growth of Over-The-Top (OTT) platforms in recent years has revolutionized the way we consume digital content. With the rise of streaming services such as Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Hotstar, among others, the Indian government has been faced with the challenge of regulating online content to ensure it is suitable for all ages. In a significant move, the central government has reiterated its commitment towards ethical digital media practices while upholding freedom of speech. As part of this effort, the government has introduced new guidelines that mandate OTT platforms to implement strict safeguards to prevent access to age-inappropriate content.
As per the new norms, OTT platforms are required to classify their content into five age-based categories: U (Universal), U/A 7+ (for children aged 7 and above), U/A 13+ (for individuals aged 13 and above), U/A 16+ (for individuals aged 16 and above), and A (for adults only). This classification system is designed to help viewers, especially parents, make informed decisions about the content their children are watching. Furthermore, OTT platforms are required to restrict access to age-inappropriate content by implementing strict parental controls and a robust viewer verification process.
The new guidelines also emphasize the importance of ensuring that no prohibited content is transmitted on OTT platforms. This includes content that promotes violence, hatred, or harm towards any individual or group, as well as content that is obscene, defamatory, or contrary to public decency and morality. The government has made it clear that OTT platforms will be held responsible for ensuring compliance with these guidelines and that failure to do so may result in penalties and other regulatory actions.
The introduction of these guidelines is a significant step towards promoting responsible and ethical digital media practices in India. The government’s commitment to upholding freedom of speech while also protecting citizens, especially children, from harmful content is a delicate balancing act. However, by working together with OTT platforms, the government aims to create a safe and responsible digital media ecosystem that promotes creativity, innovation, and freedom of expression.
One of the key challenges in implementing these guidelines is the issue of content moderation. With thousands of hours of content being uploaded to OTT platforms every day, it can be difficult to ensure that all content meets the required standards. To address this challenge, OTT platforms will need to invest in robust content moderation systems, including AI-powered tools and human moderators, to review and classify content before it is made available to the public.
Another challenge is the issue of viewer verification. OTT platforms will need to implement robust age verification mechanisms to ensure that children are not accessing age-inappropriate content. This could include measures such as password-protected accounts, parental controls, and age verification tools that use AI-powered facial recognition technology.
Despite these challenges, the introduction of these guidelines is a positive step towards promoting responsible digital media practices in India. By working together with OTT platforms, the government can help create a safe and responsible digital media ecosystem that promotes creativity, innovation, and freedom of expression. As the digital media landscape continues to evolve, it is essential that we prioritize the well-being and safety of all citizens, especially children, and ensure that online content is suitable for all ages.
In 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 in India. By classifying content into age-based categories, restricting access to age-inappropriate content, and ensuring that no prohibited content is transmitted, OTT platforms can help create a safe and responsible digital media ecosystem. As we move forward, it is essential that we continue to prioritize the well-being and safety of all citizens, especially children, and ensure that online content is suitable for all ages.
Source: https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx
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