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 bid to regulate the growing online content market, the government has introduced new guidelines for Over-The-Top (OTT) platforms, aiming to protect minors from accessing 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 no prohibited content is transmitted.
The move is seen as a significant step towards promoting responsible and safe online content consumption, particularly among children and young adults. With the rise of OTT platforms, there has been a growing concern about the availability of explicit and age-inappropriate content, which can have a negative impact on the mental and emotional well-being of minors. The government’s decision to mandate safeguards over age-inappropriate content on OTT platforms is a welcome step in addressing these concerns.
Classification of Content
As per the guidelines, OTT platforms are required to classify their content into five age-based categories: U (Universal), U/A 7+, U/A 13+, U/A 16+, and A (Adult). This classification will help parents and guardians make informed decisions about the type of content their children can access. The guidelines also specify that OTT platforms must display the classification rating prominently on the platform, along with a detailed description of the content, including themes, tone, and language used.
The classification of content is a crucial aspect of the guidelines, as it will help OTT platforms to categorize their content accurately and ensure that age-inappropriate content is not accessible to minors. The guidelines also specify that OTT platforms must have a robust age verification process in place to ensure that minors are not accessing age-inappropriate content.
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. This includes verifying the age of the viewer through a government-approved identity document, such as a passport or Aadhaar card. The guidelines also specify that OTT platforms must provide parents and guardians with tools to restrict access to age-inappropriate content, such as password-protected accounts and customizable settings.
The implementation of parental controls and viewer verification processes is a significant step towards ensuring that minors are not accessing age-inappropriate content. The guidelines also specify that OTT platforms must provide clear instructions on how to use these tools and must ensure that they are easy to use and accessible.
Prohibited Content
The guidelines also specify that OTT platforms must ensure that no prohibited content is transmitted on their platforms. Prohibited content includes content that is obscene, defamatory, or promotes violence, hatred, or discrimination. The guidelines also specify that OTT platforms must have a robust complaint redressal mechanism in place to address complaints about prohibited content.
The prohibition of certain types of content is a crucial aspect of the guidelines, as it will help to prevent the spread of harmful and objectionable content. The guidelines also specify that OTT platforms must have a clear policy in place for dealing with prohibited content, including procedures for removing or blocking access to such content.
Freedom of Speech
The government’s decision to mandate safeguards over age-inappropriate content on OTT platforms has been welcomed by many as a necessary step towards promoting responsible and safe online content consumption. However, some have raised concerns that the guidelines may infringe upon freedom of speech. The government has reiterated its commitment to upholding freedom of speech, while also ensuring that online content is regulated in a way that protects minors from harm.
The guidelines are designed to strike a balance between the need to regulate online content and the need to protect freedom of speech. The government has made it clear that the guidelines are not intended to censor or restrict online content, but rather to ensure that it is regulated in a way that is consistent with Indian laws and values.
Conclusion
The government’s decision to mandate safeguards over age-inappropriate content on OTT platforms is a significant step towards promoting responsible and safe online content consumption. The guidelines are designed to protect minors from accessing age-inappropriate content, while also upholding freedom of speech. The classification of content, implementation of parental controls and viewer verification processes, and prohibition of certain types of content are all crucial aspects of the guidelines.
As the online content market continues to grow, it is essential that governments and regulators take steps to ensure that online content is regulated in a way that is consistent with Indian laws and values. The guidelines are a welcome step in this direction, and it is hoped that they will help to promote a safer and more responsible online environment for all users.
News Source: https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx
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