Government Bans 25 OTT Platforms Including ULLU and ALTT for Obscene Content

In a significant move to regulate online streaming content, the Indian government has blocked access to 25 OTT platforms, including popular names like ULLU, ALTT (formerly ALTBalaji), Desiflix, and Big Movie Zoo. The platforms were found to be streaming content considered obscene, vulgar, and in some cases, pornographic, violating existing Indian laws.

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, in collaboration with the ministries of Electronics and Information Technology, Home Affairs, and Women and Child Development, directed internet service providers to disable access to these platforms nationwide. The decision was based on concerns about public morality, decency, and the protection of women and children from harmful digital content.

Officials stated that the banned platforms were showcasing explicit scenes with prolonged nudity and sexual innuendos, often without any narrative value. Some content was reportedly based on sensitive family settings or involved minors in inappropriate contexts. These violations were found to be in breach of provisions under the Information Technology Act, the Indian Penal Code, and the Indecent Representation of Women (Prohibition) Act.

This enforcement follows similar action taken in March 2024, when 18 other OTT platforms were banned for distributing soft pornography. Platforms like ULLU and ALTT had already been issued notices by the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights and the Digital Publisher Content Grievance Council for repeated violations.

The ban targets platforms known for producing adult-themed web series and short films. It does not include mainstream streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, or Disney+ Hotstar, which are compliant with regulatory frameworks and self-regulation guidelines.

While the decision has been welcomed by women’s rights groups, child welfare advocates, and several politicians, concerns have also been raised about the potential for excessive censorship. Nevertheless, the government has made it clear that it aims to uphold content standards in the rapidly expanding digital entertainment sector and ensure a safe and respectful online environment for all users.