🚫 OTT Crackdown: Ullu, ALTT, Desiflix Among 25 Platforms Banned for Soft‑Porn Content in India

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A Big Crackdown on OTT Platforms in India

The Indian OTT entertainment industry is in shock after the government announced a ban on 25 streaming platforms for allegedly showing soft porn and vulgar content. Popular names like Ullu, ALTT (formerly ALT Balaji), and Desiflix have been included in this list.

According to the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, these platforms were streaming content that violated the Information Technology Act, Indian Penal Code Section 292, and the Indecent Representation of Women (Prohibition) Act.

The government stated that it could not allow content that is "obscene, vulgar, or damaging to the moral fabric of society" to be distributed freely under the banner of entertainment.

 

Why Were Platforms Like Ullu and ALTT Targeted?

Platforms like Ullu and ALTT have long been known for producing adult-themed shows with explicit scenes, marketed as “bold storytelling.” While these shows attracted a young audience, they also drew criticism for crossing ethical and legal boundaries.

Desiflix faced similar accusations, and all these platforms were found to have violated the Code of Ethics outlined under the IT Rules 2021, which requires digital platforms to self-regulate their content.

 

Government’s Stand

In a recent statement, officials emphasized that freedom of expression cannot be used as an excuse to stream content that borders on pornography. This move follows multiple complaints from civil society groups and a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed in the Supreme Court demanding stricter regulation of OTT content.

The ban is part of the government's efforts to create a "safer digital space" for audiences, especially children and young viewers, who may have easy access to these platforms.

 

What Does This Mean for Viewers?

  1. No Access to Banned Platforms: Apps and websites of these 25 platforms, including Ullu and ALTT, are now blocked on major app stores and internet service providers in India.
  2. More Strict Monitoring: The crackdown is likely to bring stricter guidelines for other OTT platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Disney+ Hotstar to ensure they adhere to content regulations.
  3. End of Adult-Centric Content? Platforms known solely for erotic shows may have to revamp their content strategy or risk permanent shutdown.

 

Final Thoughts

The ban on Ullu, ALTT, and Desiflix marks a turning point for India's OTT ecosystem. While many argue this is a necessary step to protect viewers from explicit content, others believe it might stifle creative freedom.

What do you think—is this crackdown necessary, or is it crossing the line on content freedom? Share your thoughts in the comments section of this blog.

 

Reference Link: India Today - Ullu, ALTT, Desiflix and other OTT platforms banned for showing soft porn content 

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