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India’s Got Latent Row: The advisory called on Self-Regulatory Bodies to take proactive measures against violations of the Code of Ethics
Ranveer Allahbadia, 28, is best known for his YouTube channel ‘BeerBiceps‘. (Image via X/@BeerBicepsGuy)
Ranveer Allahbadia row: The Centre has asked Social media channels and OTT platforms to follow the Code of Ethics prescribed in the Information Technology Rules, 2021, and ensure critical self-regulation. The government has also asked the platforms to implement “access control for ‘A’ rated content” to avoid children consuming inappropriate content amid the row over podcaster Ranveer Allahbadia’s “watch parents have sex” comment at comedian Samay Raina’s show India’s Got Latent.
According to an advisory from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the Code of Ethics requires OTT platforms to ensure they do not transmit content prohibited by law. It mandates age-based content classification, in line with the general guidelines outlined in the Schedule to the Rules, and the implementation of access controls for ‘A’ rated content to prevent children from accessing it. Platforms are also urged to exercise caution and discretion in content selection.
The government also highlighted the importance of Self-Regulatory Bodies in ensuring compliance, noting that these bodies are responsible for overseeing OTT platforms and ensuring their adherence to the Code of Ethics.
The advisory further emphasized legal provisions that prohibit the publication of obscene or pornographic content, citing laws such as the Indecent Representation of Women Act, 1986, the Bhartiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS), 2023, the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, and the Information Technology (IT) Act, 2000. Platforms were warned of potential legal consequences for violating these laws.
The Ministry urged OTT platforms to strictly follow all applicable laws and the Code of Ethics set forth under the IT Rules, 2021, particularly with regard to age-based content classification.
The advisory called on Self-Regulatory Bodies to take proactive measures against violations of the Code of Ethics. “Self-regulatory bodies of OTT platforms are encouraged to take appropriate proactive action in case of any violations by the platforms.”
