Govt Mandates Safeguards over Age-Inappropriate Content on OTT
The rapid growth of Over-The-Top (OTT) platforms has revolutionized the way we consume media content. With a plethora of options available at our fingertips, it has become increasingly important to ensure that the content we access is suitable for our age group. In a significant move, the central government has reiterated its commitment towards ethical digital media practices while upholding the fundamental right to freedom of speech. As part of this initiative, the government has mandated OTT platforms to implement strict safeguards to prevent access to age-inappropriate content.
As per the new norms, OTT platforms are required to classify their content into five distinct age-based categories. This classification will enable viewers to make informed choices about the content they wish to access, while also allowing parents to restrict access to content that may be deemed inappropriate for their children. The five age-based categories are:
- U (Universal): Suitable for all ages
- U/A (Universal with Adult): Suitable for viewers above the age of 12, with parental guidance
- A (Adult): Suitable for viewers above the age of 18
- U/A 7+: Suitable for viewers above the age of 7, with parental guidance
- U/A 13+: Suitable for viewers above the age of 13, with parental guidance
In addition to content classification, OTT platforms are also required to implement strict parental controls and a robust viewer verification process. This will ensure that minors are unable to access age-inappropriate content, even if they attempt to do so. The parental controls will allow parents to set limits on the type of content their children can access, while the viewer verification process will verify the age of the viewer before granting access to restricted content.
Another crucial aspect of the new norms is the prohibition of certain types of content. OTT platforms are strictly prohibited from transmitting content that:
- Promotes or glorifies violence, terrorism, or hatred
- Is obscene, defamatory, or libelous
- Encourages or promotes gambling, substance abuse, or other vices
- Is derogatory or disrespectful towards any individual, group, or community
The government’s decision to mandate safeguards over age-inappropriate content on OTT platforms is a welcome move. It reflects the government’s commitment to protecting the interests of its citizens, particularly children and minors, while also upholding the principles of freedom of speech and expression. By implementing these safeguards, OTT platforms can ensure that their content is consumed responsibly, while also promoting a culture of digital literacy and responsibility.
The new norms are also expected to have a positive impact on the OTT industry as a whole. By providing a safe and responsible viewing experience, OTT platforms can attract a wider audience, including families and children. This, in turn, can lead to increased subscription rates, improved customer satisfaction, and a more sustainable business model.
In conclusion, the government’s decision to mandate safeguards over age-inappropriate content on OTT platforms is a significant step towards promoting ethical digital media practices. By classifying content into age-based categories, implementing parental controls and viewer verification processes, and prohibiting certain types of content, OTT platforms can ensure that their content is consumed responsibly. As the OTT industry continues to grow and evolve, it is essential that we prioritize the interests of our citizens, particularly children and minors, while also upholding the principles of freedom of speech and expression.
Source: https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx
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