In 2024, the government took strict action against OTT platforms displaying obscene content and vulgar videos by blocking 18 such apps.
The government has implemented this measure to regulate digital media.
As per the IT Rules 2021, action has been taken against apps that provide vulgar and obscene content.
In addition, the government has decided to block several apps to safeguard the data of Indian users.
Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting L Murugan
In response to another question, Murugan stated that digital media publishers, including YouTube news channels like Bolta Hindustan and National Dastak, fall under the IT Rules, 2021.
Part-III of these rules allows authorities to issue directives to block content under Section 69A of the Information Technology Act, 2000 (IT Act, 2000).
This ensures that India’s sovereignty, integrity, defense, and state security remain protected.
Union Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting, L Murugan, announced during the winter session of Parliament that the government has decided to block 18 OTT apps under the IT Rules 2021.
These apps were found to be distributing obscene and pornographic content. The action was taken under Section 69A of the IT Act.
Action Taken on These Apps
The government has blocked the following OTT apps for distributing obscene content:
- Dreams Films
- Voovi
- Yessma
- Uncut Adda
- Tri Flicks
- X Prime
- VIP
- Besharams
- Hunters
- Rabbit
- Xtramood
- Nueflix
- MoodX
- Mojflix
- VIP Hot Shots
- Fugi
- Chikooflix
- PrimePlay
Legal Action Against App Owners
Action has been taken against the app owners under Section 292 of the IPC for distributing obscene content.
Additionally, an order has been issued to block these apps under Section 4 of the Indecent Representation of Women (Prohibition) Act, 1986.
Some of these apps had over 1 crore downloads and used platforms like Facebook, WhatsApp, X, and YouTube to promote trailers and clips of explicit content.
