India Pakistan Conflict: Govt Advisory to OTT Platforms: Discontinue Streaming Content Originating from Pakistan

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has issued an advisory directing all OTT platforms, media streaming platforms, and digital intermediaries operating in India to immediately discontinue streaming any web series, films, songs, podcasts, or other content originating from Pakistan, irrespective of whether the content is provided on a subscription basis or otherwise.

Govt Advisory to OTT Platforms 

In the interest of national security, all OTT platforms, media streaming platforms and intermediaries operating in India are advised to discontinue the web-series, films, songs, podcasts and other streaming media content, whether made available on a subscription based model or… pic.twitter.com/8yjP6ULNEU

— ANI (@ANI) May 8, 2025

The advisory cites national security concerns following recent terrorist attacks, including the April 22 attack in Pahalgam, which resulted in the deaths of several Indian citizens and one Nepali national. The ministry highlights the established involvement of Pakistan-based state and non-state actors in such incidents.

Referring to the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021.

The advisory reminds content publishers to exercise discretion while featuring content that may:

Threaten the sovereignty, unity, and integrity of India,

Jeopardize state security,

Affect friendly relations with foreign countries,

Disturb public order or incite violence.

The advisory was issued with the approval of the competent authority in the Ministry and signed by Kshitij Aggarwal, Deputy Director.

The advisory underscores the government’s firm stance on preventing the dissemination of content that could potentially undermine India’s national interests. By invoking provisions from the IT Rules, 2021, the Ministry aims to ensure that digital platforms operate within a framework that prioritizes the country’s security and diplomatic sensitivities. Platforms are expected to comply promptly and ensure that no content with Pakistani origin remains accessible to Indian audiences going forward.