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 introduced new guidelines for Over-The-Top (OTT) platforms, aiming to regulate the content available on these platforms and ensure a safe viewing experience for all age groups. 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 new guidelines have been introduced in response to growing concerns about the availability of age-inappropriate content on OTT platforms. With the rise of online streaming services, there has been a significant increase in the consumption of digital content, including movies, TV shows, and original series. While OTT platforms have provided a wide range of benefits, including convenience and accessibility, they have also raised concerns about the impact of age-inappropriate content on children and young adults.
The government’s decision to introduce new guidelines for OTT platforms is a welcome move, as it aims to strike a balance between the freedom of speech and the need to protect vulnerable audiences. The guidelines require OTT platforms to classify content into five age-based categories: U (Universal), U/A 7+ (for children above 7 years), U/A 13+ (for persons above 13 years), U/A 16+ (for persons above 16 years), and A (for adults only). This classification will help parents and guardians to make informed decisions about the content their children can access.
In addition to content classification, the guidelines also require OTT platforms to implement strict parental controls and viewer verification processes. This will ensure that children and young adults are not exposed to age-inappropriate content, and that parents and guardians have greater control over the content their children can access. The guidelines also mandate that OTT platforms ensure no prohibited content is transmitted, including content that promotes violence, hatred, or discrimination.
The introduction of these guidelines is a significant step forward in regulating the OTT industry, which has grown exponentially in recent years. The guidelines will apply to all OTT platforms, including international platforms that operate in India, and will be enforced by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. The government has also set up a grievance redressal mechanism, which will allow viewers to report any complaints or concerns they may have about the content available on OTT platforms.
The new guidelines have been welcomed by parents and child rights organizations, who have long been advocating for greater regulation of the OTT industry. They believe that the guidelines will help to protect children and young adults from the harmful effects of age-inappropriate content, and will promote a safer and more responsible viewing experience.
However, some critics have argued that the guidelines may have a chilling effect on freedom of speech and creativity. They believe that the guidelines may lead to self-censorship, as OTT platforms may be reluctant to produce or distribute content that may be deemed age-inappropriate. Others have argued that the guidelines may not be effective in regulating the OTT industry, as they may be difficult to enforce and may not keep pace with the rapid evolution of technology.
Despite these concerns, the government’s decision to introduce new guidelines for OTT platforms is a step in the right direction. The guidelines recognize the importance of balancing freedom of speech with the need to protect vulnerable audiences, and provide a framework for regulating the OTT industry. As the OTT industry continues to grow and evolve, it is essential that the government continues to monitor and regulate the industry, to ensure that it promotes a safe and responsible viewing experience for all.
In conclusion, the central government’s decision to introduce new guidelines for OTT platforms is a significant move towards regulating the OTT industry and promoting a safer viewing experience for all age groups. The guidelines require OTT platforms to classify content into five age-based categories, restrict access to age-inappropriate content, and ensure no prohibited content is transmitted. While there may be some concerns about the impact of the guidelines on freedom of speech and creativity, they are a necessary step towards promoting responsible and ethical digital media practices.
Source: https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx
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