Supreme Court's big suggestion: Aadhaar verification now mandatory to prevent pornographic content on OTT platforms like Netflix and YouTube.

Aadhaar Verification to Watch OTT Content: During a hearing in the Supreme Court, CJI Surya Kant suggested that age verification should be done using an Aadhaar card before watching adult content on platforms like Netflix and YouTube. The court also expressed strong displeasure over content mocking the disabled and reprimanded comedians like Samay Raina.

Aadhaar Verification to Watch OTT Content: The Supreme Court of India on Thursday indicated that users may soon be required to verify their age using Aadhaar or PAN before viewing certain types of online content. This would include content deemed "obscene," "objectionable" to persons with disabilities, or "anti-national." The bench of Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi made these comments during an ongoing hearing on digital content regulation.

This update relates to a Supreme Court suggestion and has not yet been incorporated into any government regulations or policies. This suggestion came up during a hearing held on November 27, 2025. Let's find out what the whole matter is.

What is the whole matter?

An FIR was filed against popular YouTuber Ranveer Allahbadia, Saiyam Raina, and some other content creators for allegedly making objectionable and vulgar comments in an episode of the show "India's Got Talent." Some jokes and conversations on the show were perceived as mocking people with disabilities and sensitive issues, sparking controversy.

The case was being heard by a bench comprising Chief Justice (CJI) Surya Kant and Justice Jyomlya Bagchi. During the hearing, the bench expressed concern that the existing regulatory system for user-generated content on YouTube, Netflix, and other OTT platforms is insufficient. The court noted that obscene or harmful content is easily accessible on social media, especially for minors, which can adversely affect their mental health and social values.

Aadhaar verification suggested to curb adult content.

The Supreme Court has expressed concern about curbing online pornographic content. Justice Joymalya Bagchi stated that pornography in books or paintings is a different matter. They can be auctioned and even banned if necessary. However, mobile phones are a different matter. As soon as someone turns on their phone, the content appears directly, and sometimes inappropriate content is displayed without their intention. What should be the solution?

CJI Surya Kant also offered his opinion on this matter. He said that platforms display warnings, but they last for a few seconds and then the show resumes immediately. Therefore, the option of Aadhaar verification could be appropriate, as it would determine the age of the viewer. This could be implemented as a pilot project. According to a Bar & Bench report, the court clarified that this is only a suggestion, not an order.