The Indian government has issued a stern advisory to social media platforms and OTT services, directing them to adhere to the Code of Ethics under the Information Technology Rules, 2021, and implement stricter self-regulation. The move follows mounting concerns over explicit content, particularly in light of the controversy surrounding podcaster Ranveer Allahbadia’s remarks on a comedy show, which led to police cases and a Supreme Court rebuke.

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting emphasised the need for platforms to ensure compliance with existing laws, warning against the “spread of obscene, pornographic, and vulgar content.” The advisory mandates age-based classification of content, particularly enforcing access control for ‘A’ rated material to prevent children from exposure to inappropriate material.

The Supreme Court, hearing Allahbadia’s plea to club multiple FIRs filed against him, came down heavily on the issue, questioning whether the government planned to regulate explicit content online. “We won’t leave a vacuum,” the court remarked, urging authorities to take swift action. Following this, the Centre reiterated its expectations from digital platforms, reinforcing the importance of self-regulation and adherence to legal frameworks.

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The government underscored that OTT platforms must not publish content prohibited by law and must classify content responsibly. It also reiterated the role of self-regulatory bodies in monitoring compliance and taking corrective action in case of violations.

Citing various legal provisions—including the Indecent Representation of Women Act, the Bhartiya Nyay Sanhita, the POCSO Act, and the IT Act—the advisory warned of severe legal consequences for breaches. Officials stressed that any failure to regulate explicit content could lead to further governmental intervention.

The controversy has also drawn parliamentary scrutiny, with lawmakers questioning the effectiveness of existing regulations and suggesting amendments to bring online platforms under stricter oversight. As discussions intensify, digital platforms may face greater regulatory scrutiny in the coming months.