The Government takes down obscene OTT platforms and has unleashed a landmark crackdown on 24 streaming apps accused of proliferating vulgar dramas and films. Outraged parents and child welfare groups demanded action after viewers stumbled upon explicit scenes without any age warnings.
Authorities swiftly instructed all major ISPs to cut access nationwide, underscoring a zero‑tolerance stance on digital indecency. This decisive move marks a new era of content oversight under the ban\’s OTT platforms.
Government Ban Targets OTT Platforms Accused of Streaming Obscene Content
The Government ban targets streaming apps accused of showing obscene content, ordering immediate nationwide blocks by telecom providers. On 25 July 2025, Dailyhunt reported that the government targets obscene OTT platforms and bans 24 apps, including ULLU. It clearly lists all banned streaming services, names ALT Balaji, ULLU, Big Shots App, Desiflix, and MoodX.
Officials claim these platforms repeatedly streamed obscene films or series without any proper age verification warnings. Major internet service providers blocked access nationwide under government orders to enforce the ban on OTT platforms directive. Users and activists welcomed this decisive action, praising the ban for protecting community decency across all networks.
Move Aims to Regulate Unchecked Digital Entertainment Platforms
Following a surge in complaints over explicit streaming content, authorities moved decisively to cut off access and enforce digital decency, highlighting a commitment to protect viewers and uphold morality standards.
● The government intervened after numerous reports of indecent material appearing on popular OTT platforms.
● Regulators instructed major ISPs, Jio, Airtel, and Vodafone, to block all 24 banned apps without delay.
● Enforcement cited the IT Act, 2000 (Sections 67 and 67A) to prohibit obscene online content.
● Officials also invoked the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 (Section 294), targeting public acts of obscenity.
● The Indecent Representation of Women (Prohibition) Act, 1986, was referenced for banning vulgar depictions of women.
This robust legal framework empowered the immediate implementation of the Ban OTT platforms order to safeguard public decency.
Industry Divided on Censorship Versus Creative Freedom Debate
Streaming companies warn that over‑regulation could stifle innovation and creative storytelling. Producers argue that adult‑rated shows serve niche audiences who demand mature themes responsibly. Critics counter that vulgar content easily reaches underage viewers without robust age‑verification measures. Some legal experts call for clearer guidelines rather than blanket bans on diverse platforms.
Advocacy groups applaud the Ban OTT platforms action as necessary to protect social values. Meanwhile, creators lobby for transparent content rating systems and self‑regulation over Government‑led censorship. This debate highlights the balance between freedom of expression and cultural norms.
The Government\’s decisive action underscores its zero‑tolerance stance on obscene online content. Stakeholders must now adapt under the Ban\’s OTT platforms regime.
