15 OTT Platforms Face the Axe: Government Takes Major Action Over Fake News and Misleading Content..

Online content in India is growing rapidly; however, this growth has also brought to the fore the issue of erroneous and objectionable content. Consequently, the government and a Parliamentary Committee are now adopting a stricter stance regarding OTT platforms. According to a recent report, approximately 10 to 15 OTT platforms are currently under scrutiny on charges of violating regulations.

Investigations Underway Against Several Platforms

The Parliamentary Committee stated that several OTT platforms face allegations of hosting illegal and objectionable content. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting disclosed that 25 platforms were initially blocked, followed by punitive action taken against 18 additional platforms. Currently, investigations into 10 to 15 platforms are ongoing, and they may be blocked if deemed necessary. The objective behind these measures is to ensure the availability of safe and wholesome content on the internet.

Strict Action Against Obscene Content

In February, the government blocked several OTT platforms, including MoodXVIP, Koyal Playpro, Digi Movieplex, Feel, and Jugnu. These platforms were accused of hosting obscene and objectionable content, thereby violating the IT Rules, 2021.

Prior to this, in 2025, the government had taken significant action by banning over 25 applications—including several popular platforms—in a move aimed at regulating online content.

Gaps in Content Regulation

In its report, the Committee noted that certain gaps still exist within the regulatory framework governing OTT services and online media. Therefore, there is a need to establish a robust and transparent regulatory system to effectively curb the dissemination of objectionable content. The government seeks to enhance the efficacy of content monitoring mechanisms across digital platforms.

Utilizing AI to Combat Fake News

The Committee also expressed concern regarding the proliferation of fake news and misinformation. The Fact Check Unit of the Press Information Bureau (PIB) is actively working in this domain and has, to date, blocked approximately 1,400 URLs. The report suggests that AI tools should be utilized more extensively to curb fake content, and that additional personnel—particularly those proficient in various languages—should be recruited for this task.

The Matter Reaches the Courts

On March 10, 2026, the Supreme Court of India agreed to hear this matter. The case pertains to a Bombay High Court verdict that had struck down the PIB Fact Check Unit. However, the Supreme Court declined to stay the High Court's judgment, thereby rendering this case even more significant.

Rising Fake News During Major Events

The report further notes that fake news, along with misleading video and audio clips, tends to proliferate most during major events—such as elections, protests, or significant incidents. Consequently, the government and relevant agencies need to exercise heightened vigilance to ensure that accurate information reaches the public.

Disclaimer: This content has been sourced and edited from NDTV India. While we have made modifications for clarity and presentation, the original content belongs to its respective authors and website. We do not claim ownership of the content.