In an increasingly digital world, not everything that trends should be tolerated. The Government of India, through the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting (MIB), has made a decisive move by instructing Internet Service Providers (ISPs) across the nation to block access to 25 websites that were found to be promoting unlawful and inappropriate content.
This step isn’t just about enforcing laws—it’s about protecting citizens, particularly women and children, from harmful, indecent, and misleading content that quietly seeps into homes through screens.
Under the authority of the Information Technology Act, 2000, and reinforced by the Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Rules, the government identified a number of OTT apps and websites—including ALTT, ULLU, Big Shots App, Desiflix, and several others—as violators of Indian laws. These platforms were allegedly in breach of key legal provisions, including Section 67 and 67A of the IT Act, Section 294 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (2023), and Section 4 of the Indecent Representation of Women (Prohibition) Act (1986).
These aren’t just arbitrary legal numbers. They represent the line between creative freedom and the moral, legal responsibilities owed to a society. Section 67, for instance, deals with publishing obscene material in electronic form—something that, if left unchecked, can shape harmful perceptions and normalize indecency.
According to the law, intermediaries—like digital platforms and service providers—must act when notified of illegal content. Failure to do so results in a loss of “safe harbour,” meaning they can be held directly accountable for the content they allow to exist on their platforms.
This directive also reinforces Rule 7 of the IT Rules, where non-compliance can lead to penalties and even prosecution. Platforms distributing digital news or offering OTT services are required to follow a strict Code of Ethics, ensuring their content does not harm India’s unity, morality, or safety.
At its heart, this move is a wake-up call. It sends a powerful message: the digital space is not lawless. Content creators and platform owners must recognize their responsibility in what they produce and promote.
Let’s not forget—the internet is a powerful tool, but its power must be wielded with conscience and care.
