Government blocks 5 OTT platforms for streaming explicit content

In a renewed crackdown on objectionable digital content, the Union government has blocked five OTT platforms , MoodXVIP, Koyal Playpro, Digi Movieplex, Feel and Jugnu , for allegedly streaming sexually explicit and obscene material , officials said on Tuesday.

Sources in the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting said the platforms were found hosting web series and videos containing graphic sexual acts, prolonged nudity, and content that allegedly crossed permissible limits of decency under Indian law. Officials indicated that several shows were built primarily around explicit themes without meaningful context. In some instances, the content reportedly lacked proper age based classification and parental control safeguards mandated under digital regulations.

The blocking orders were issued under Section 69A of the Information Technology Act, 2000 , which empowers the government to restrict public access to online content in the interest of sovereignty, public order and decency. The action was taken in accordance with the Information Technology Rules, 2021 , which require OTT platforms to follow a Code of Ethics, classify content into age categories such as U, UA 13 plus, UA 16 plus and A, and establish a grievance redressal mechanism. Platforms must also respond to user complaints within a prescribed timeline.

Officials said the move followed due procedure, including examination of the content and inter departmental consultations. Internet service providers have been directed to disable access to the platforms.

This is not the first such action. In previous crackdowns, several websites and lesser known OTT apps operating in the adult content segment were blocked under similar provisions. The government has consistently maintained that digital platforms are not beyond the ambit of Indian law , and that creative freedom cannot override statutory restrictions on obscenity.

Industry analysts note that these niche platforms typically run on low cost subscription models, charging between Rs 99 and Rs 299 per month. While exact subscriber numbers are not publicly disclosed, estimates suggest that such apps can attract lakhs of users and generate annual revenues of several crores through subscriptions and advertising. However, officials stress that commercial success cannot come at the cost of legal compliance.