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Digital Content Regulation: New Legal Framework for OTT

24 February 20251 min read
NATIONAL AFFAIRSDigital ContentRegulation: NewLegal Frameworkfor OTT24 February 2025safalsetu.com

Why in the news

Complaints of obscene and violent online content led the I&B Ministry to review the law and a possible new framework.

Key facts

  • The government says free speech is being misused; the Supreme Court and National Commission for Women raised concerns too.
  • The Standing Committee on Communications and IT (chair: Nishikant Dubey) sought amendments, with cross-party support.
  • Print and electronic media have a regulatory framework; OTT and YouTube do not.
  • The Supreme Court spoke of a legal “vacuum” and hinted it might step in if the government fails.

Government advisory

  • OTT platforms were told to follow the IT Rules, 2021 strictly.
  • Self-regulatory bodies were urged to act quickly on violations.

Exam angle

  • Rules cited: IT Rules, 2021.

Test yourself

1. Which ministry is examining a new legal framework to regulate harmful digital content on OTT platforms?

The I&B Ministry is examining existing provisions and a new framework.

2. Which rules did the ministry's advisory ask OTT platforms to comply with strictly?

The advisory stressed compliance with the IT Rules, 2021.

3. Which parliamentary panel, led by Nishikant Dubey, demanded tougher amendments on controversial digital content?

The IT standing committee sought amendments to curb such content.