Full list: ALTBalaji, Ullu among 25 OTT apps blocked for ‘pornographic’ content
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Full list: ALTBalaji, Ullu among 25 OTT apps blocked for ‘pornographic’ content
The central government has ordered the blocking of 25 OTT platforms and associated mobile applications, including prominent names like ALTBalaji and Ullu. The action was prompted after authorities found the platforms to be in “serious violation” of Indian laws governing digital content. The banned platforms reportedly hosted videos and web series laden with “sexual innuendos” and, in many instances, extended scenes of “sexually explicit acts involving nudity”, which were deemed “pornographic in nature”
According to officials familiar with the matter, the action was prompted after authorities found the platforms to be in “serious violation” of Indian laws governing digital content.
The banned platforms reportedly hosted videos and web series laden with “sexual innuendos” and, in many instances, extended scenes of “sexually explicit acts involving nudity”, which were deemed “pornographic in nature.”
A source said that much of the material featured on these platforms was found to be devoid of “any meaningful storyline, theme, or social message” and instead focused largely on “obscene and vulgar” visuals.
Also Read | How OTT platforms skirted warnings against ‘pornographic’ content; now ALTT, Ullu, Hulchul among 25 banned
The government has not yet issued a formal public notification.
List of 25 OTT platforms banned in latest crackdown:
ALTBalaji (ALTT) Ullu Big Shots App Desiflix Boomex NeonX VIP Navarasa Lite Gulab App Kangan App Bull App ShowHit Jalva App Wow Entertainment Look Entertainment Hitprime Fugi Feneo ShowX Sol Talkies Adda TV HotX VIP Hulchul App MoodX Triflicks Mojflix
The government has previously warned streaming platforms to adhere to self-regulatory guidelines, but Thursday’s action signals a shift toward stricter enforcement.
Also Read | Why are ALTBalaji, Ullu, Gulaab App and OTT platforms banned by government
Utilising provisions under the Information Technology Act, 2000 and the IT (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, the central government has issued notifications to intermediaries directing them to disable access to the identified websites and mobile applications, official source said.