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 robust safeguards to restrict access to age-inappropriate content. This decision aims to ensure that online content is aligned with the country’s cultural and social values, while also protecting the interests of citizens, particularly children and minors.
As per the newly introduced norms, OTT platforms are required to classify their content into five distinct age-based categories. This categorization will enable parents and guardians to make informed decisions about the type of content their children can access. The age-based categories are:
- U (Universal): Suitable for all ages, including children.
- U/A (Universal – Adult): Suitable for children above the age of 12, with parental guidance.
- U/A 16+: Suitable for individuals above the age of 16, with parental guidance.
- A (Adult): Suitable for adults only, above the age of 18.
- Restricted: Content that is restricted and not suitable for public viewing.
To ensure that age-inappropriate content is not accessible to minors, OTT platforms are required to implement strict parental controls and a robust viewer verification process. This will involve verifying the age of the viewer before allowing them to access content that is restricted to adults or older minors. The verification process may include the use of government-issued ID cards, such as Aadhaar cards, or other reliable age-verification methods.
Furthermore, the government has mandated that OTT platforms ensure that no prohibited content is transmitted on their platforms. Prohibited content includes material that is obscene, defamatory, or promotes hatred, violence, or discrimination against any individual or group. OTT platforms are also required to establish a grievance redressal mechanism, which will enable citizens to report any objectionable content or complaints related to the platform’s content.
The introduction of these safeguards is a significant step towards promoting responsible and ethical digital media practices in the country. The government’s move is expected to have a positive impact on the online media ecosystem, as it will help to protect the interests of citizens, particularly children and minors, while also promoting a culture of responsibility and accountability among OTT platforms.
The government’s decision to mandate safeguards over age-inappropriate content on OTT platforms is also in line with international best practices. Many countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia, have implemented similar regulations to restrict access to age-inappropriate content on online platforms.
In conclusion, the central government’s decision to mandate safeguards over age-inappropriate content on OTT platforms is a welcome move that aims to promote responsible and ethical digital media practices in the country. The introduction of age-based content classification, parental controls, and viewer verification processes will help to protect the interests of citizens, particularly children and minors, while also promoting a culture of responsibility and accountability among OTT platforms.
The government’s commitment to promoting ethical digital media practices while upholding the fundamental right to freedom of speech is a significant step towards creating a safe and responsible online media ecosystem. As the online media landscape continues to evolve, it is essential that the government, OTT platforms, and citizens work together to ensure that the online media ecosystem is aligned with the country’s cultural and social values.
Source: https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx
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