Govt Mandates Safeguards Over Age-Inappropriate Content on OTT
The central government has reiterated its commitment towards ethical digital media practices while upholding freedom of speech. In a significant move, the government has mandated OTT (Over-the-top) platforms to implement strict safeguards to prevent the transmission of age-inappropriate content to minors. As per the new 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 is aimed at protecting children from exposure to mature themes, violence, and explicit content that may be harmful to their mental and emotional well-being. The government has been receiving complaints from parents and child rights organizations regarding the availability of age-inappropriate content on OTT platforms, which has prompted the authorities to take action.
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+ (for children aged 7 and above), U/A 13+ (for children aged 13 and above), U/A 16+ (for children aged 16 and above), and A (Adult). The classification will be based on the theme, tone, and content of the program, including violence, sex, and language.
The classification system is designed to help parents make informed decisions about what their children can watch. The U category will include content that is suitable for all ages, while the U/A categories will include content that may not be suitable for younger children due to mature themes or language. The A category will include content that is strictly for adults only.
Parental Controls and Viewer Verification
To restrict access to age-inappropriate content, OTT platforms are required to implement strict parental controls and viewer verification processes. Parents will be able to set up parental controls to limit their child’s access to certain types of content, and OTT platforms will be required to verify the age of the viewer before allowing them to access age-restricted content.
The parental controls will include features such as password-protected accounts, content filters, and time limits on screen time. The viewer verification process will include age verification through government-issued ID or other reliable means. The OTT platforms will also be required to provide clear and prominent warnings about the content of the program, including any mature themes, violence, or explicit language.
Prohibited Content
The government has also specified that no prohibited content will be allowed on OTT platforms. Prohibited content includes content that promotes violence, hatred, or terrorism, as well as content that is obscene or defamatory. OTT platforms will be required to ensure that all content available on their platforms complies with the laws of the land and does not promote or glorify violence, hatred, or terrorism.
The move is expected to have a significant impact on the OTT industry, which has been growing rapidly in recent years. The industry has been criticized for its lack of regulation and the availability of age-inappropriate content on some platforms. The new guidelines will help to ensure that OTT platforms are held to the same standards as traditional television and film, and that children are protected from exposure to mature themes and content.
Conclusion
The central government’s decision to mandate safeguards over age-inappropriate content on OTT platforms is a welcome move. The new guidelines will help to protect children from exposure to mature themes and content, and will ensure that OTT platforms are held to the same standards as traditional television and film. The classification system, parental controls, and viewer verification processes will all help to ensure that children are protected, while also upholding freedom of speech and creative expression.
As the OTT industry continues to grow and evolve, it is essential that the government and regulators take steps to ensure that the industry is operating in a responsible and ethical manner. The new guidelines are an important step in this direction, and will help to promote a safer and more responsible digital media environment for all.
News Source: https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx
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