Govt Mandates Safeguards Over Age-Inappropriate Content on OTT
The central government has reiterated its commitment towards promoting ethical digital media practices while upholding the fundamental right to freedom of speech. In a significant move, the government has mandated that Over-the-Top (OTT) platforms implement stringent safeguards to prevent the dissemination of age-inappropriate content. This decision aims to ensure a safer and more regulated online environment for audiences, particularly children and young adults.
As per the newly introduced norms, OTT platforms are required to classify their content into five distinct age-based categories. This categorization will enable viewers to make informed decisions about the content they wish to consume, while also allowing parents and guardians to exercise greater control over the media their children are exposed to. The five age-based categories are:
- U (Universal): Content suitable for all ages, including children.
- U/A (Universal Adult): Content that may be suitable for adults and children above the age of 12, but parental discretion is advised.
- A (Adult): Content restricted to adults aged 18 and above.
- U/A 13+: Content suitable for individuals aged 13 and above, but parental discretion is advised for those below 18.
- U/A 16+: Content suitable for individuals aged 16 and above, but parental discretion is advised for those below 18.
In addition to content classification, OTT platforms are also required to restrict access to age-inappropriate content by implementing strict parental controls and a robust viewer verification process. This will prevent minors from accessing content that is not suitable for their age group. The parental controls will enable parents to set limits on the type of content their children can access, while the viewer verification process will ensure that only authorized individuals can access restricted content.
Furthermore, the government has emphasized that OTT platforms must ensure that no prohibited content is transmitted on their platforms. Prohibited content includes, but is not limited to, material that promotes hate speech, violence, or obscenity. OTT platforms are also required to establish a complaint redressal mechanism, which will enable viewers to report any objectionable content.
The introduction of these safeguards is a significant step towards promoting responsible and ethical digital media practices in India. The government’s decision to mandate these measures reflects its commitment to protecting the interests of citizens, particularly children and young adults, in the digital age.
In recent years, OTT platforms have gained immense popularity in India, with millions of users accessing a wide range of content, including movies, TV shows, and original series. While OTT platforms have provided a platform for creators to showcase their talent and for audiences to access diverse content, they have also raised concerns about the potential impact of age-inappropriate content on children and young adults.
The government’s decision to regulate OTT platforms is a response to these concerns. By mandating content classification, parental controls, and a viewer verification process, the government aims to create a safer online environment for audiences. This move is also expected to promote self-regulation among OTT platforms, encouraging them to adopt responsible and ethical practices.
In conclusion, the government’s decision to mandate safeguards over age-inappropriate content on OTT platforms is a significant step towards promoting responsible and ethical digital media practices in India. By introducing content classification, parental controls, and a viewer verification process, the government aims to create a safer online environment for audiences, particularly children and young adults. As the digital media landscape continues to evolve, it is essential that OTT platforms and the government work together to promote responsible and ethical practices that prioritize the interests of citizens.
Source: https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx
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