Modi Government Cracks Down on OTT Platforms: 5 Apps Blocked, Over 100 Series Removed

In a strong move against objectionable online content, the Indian government has blocked five OTT platforms that were streaming explicit material. Despite repeated warnings, these platforms continued to bypass regulations, often re-uploading content after changing their domain names. More than 100 web series have been removed in the crackdown.

Five Platforms Face the Ban

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting took decisive action against platforms deemed to be streaming “obscene” and “vulgar” content. The blocked OTT apps include MoodXVIP, Koyal PlayPro, Digi Movieplex, Feel, and Jugnu.

Internet Service Providers (ISPs) were directed to block access to these platforms under the Information Technology Rules 2021 and relevant sections of the IT Act, 2000, particularly Section 69A, which empowers the government to restrict online content. The move aims to protect public decency, uphold national interests, and enforce ethical standards on digital platforms.

Previous Warnings Ignored

This is not the first action against objectionable content on OTT platforms. In July 2025, the government had taken similar steps against apps and websites streaming pornographic or vulgar content that violated Indian laws.

The banned platforms had repeatedly ignored warnings and continued to publish objectionable material using alternative domains. Officials noted that after being blocked in March 2024, these platforms resumed streaming explicit content on new domains, evading monitoring efforts.

Content Lacked Story or Social Message

Authorities reported that the content on these five OTT platforms primarily featured sexual references and explicit sexual acts, with long scenes of nudity. The material was described as pornographic in nature, offering no storyline, theme, or social message. The visuals were considered “obscene and vulgar,” lacking any artistic or narrative value.

Over 100 Web Series Removed, But Some Reappeared

The Ministry’s action followed consultations with industry bodies, experts, and other stakeholders. Advisory notices had emphasized compliance with the Code of Ethics under IT Rules 2021, and self-regulatory interventions by the Digital Publisher Content Grievance Council had ordered edits in some shows deemed “tasteless or objectionable.”

Despite the removal of over 100 web series, investigations revealed that some content had been re-uploaded in its original form to evade oversight, prompting the latest enforcement measures.