'For streaming obscene content': Govt blocks 5 OTT platforms; action under IT Rules 2021
Times of India
by TOI NEWS DESKFebruary 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The Indian government has taken action against five OTT (over-the-top) platforms—MoodXVIP, Koyal Playpro, Digi Movieplex, Feel, and Jugnu—for streaming content deemed obscene. The move was made under the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, which aim to maintain public decency and enforce ethical practices in digital media. Internet service providers have been instructed to block access to these platforms following due legal procedures.
This decision aligns with Section 69A of the Information Technology Act, 2000, which grants the government the authority to block online content for various reasons, including national security and public interest. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting emphasized that such actions are necessary to uphold moral standards and safeguard societal values. The blocked platforms were found to violate guidelines related to digital media ethics, signaling a continued effort by the Indian government to regulate content on streaming services.
The blocking of these OTT platforms reflects India's growing focus on internet governance and content regulation. This move is part of a broader strategy to ensure that digital content complies with legal standards and ethical norms. It also underscores the government's commitment to addressing issues related to obscenity and inappropriate content online, which have been contentious topics in recent years.
For readers interested in global media regulation, this action highlights India's proactive approach to managing digital content. The move sets a precedent for other countries grappling with similar challenges in balancing free expression with societal norms. By enforcing these rules, the Indian government aims to create a safer and more responsible digital environment for its citizens. This step is part of a larger push to regulate intermediaries and ensure that digital spaces align with national laws and ethical standards.
In summary, the blocking of these OTT platforms marks an important milestone in India's ongoing efforts to regulate online content and uphold public decency. It demonstrates the government's determination to enforce legal frameworks and maintain control over digital media, which is likely to have broader implications for internet governance in the country.
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/24/2026