Archive · 25 Jul 2025
India Blocks 25 OTT Platforms Over Obscene Content
The government told internet providers to stop people from seeing 25 online video platforms.
These platforms were showing things that are considered inappropriate or even pornographic.
They broke laws about what you can show online.
The government had already warned them.
Now, the government is taking stronger action because the platforms didn't change.
Officials said the content violated laws designed to protect women and children.
The Indian government directed ISPs to block 25 OTT platforms for publishing obscene content.
The action was taken under the Information Technology Act, 2000 and IT Rules, 2021.
The content on the platforms violated multiple sections of the IT Act, IPC, and Indecent Representation of Women Act.
The government received numerous complaints and also received references from the National Commission on Protection of Child Rights.
Prior warnings were issued, but platforms continued to publish offensive content.
- Who
- The Indian government directed ISPs.
- What
- The government blocked access to 25 OTT platforms for hosting obscene content.
- When
- The news was published on July 25, 2025. The blocking took place after warnings.
- Where
- India
- Why
- Because the platforms were publishing obscene and potentially pornographic content, violating Indian laws.
Government's Perspective
Platform/User Perspective
Content Regulation vs. Free Speech
Government's Perspective
Protection of Children and Women: The government's action is primarily to safeguard against harmful content.
Platform/User Perspective
Concerns about censorship: Platforms and some users may view this as censorship of free expression.
- Platforms Blocked
- 25
- Legal Basis
- IT Act, 2000; IT Rules, 2021
- Offenses
- IT Act Section 67 & 67A, IPC Section 292, Indecent Representation of Women (Prohibition) Act, 1986
- Action Taken By
- Government of India, including MeitY, Home Affairs and Women and Child Development ministries
- Consulted Parties
- FICCI, CII, experts in women and child rights, and DPCGC
- Prior Actions
- Warnings, advisory, blocking of other platforms