On Tuesday, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) ordered the blocking of five online streaming platforms over allegations that they were hosting obscene content. Government sources said the action followed established legal procedures and came after the ministry received multiple complaints.
Five OTT platforms blocked
According to the list shared with the media, the platforms blocked are MoodXVIP, Koyal Playpro, Digi Movieplex, Feel, and Jugnu. Officials stated that the move was taken under provisions of the Information Technology Act and the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, which govern unlawful and harmful digital content.
Previous actions against OTT platforms
This is not the first such intervention by the government. In July 2025, the MIB directed the blocking of 25 OTT platforms for allegedly streaming obscene, vulgar, or pornographic material. Media reports at the time said the decision followed consultations with various government bodies and other stakeholders. Platforms including Ullu, ALTT, Big Shots App, NeonX VIP, and Desiflix were among those affected.
Authorities had earlier issued warnings and advisories. In September 2024, the platforms were reportedly cautioned about compliance, and in February 2025, the MIB released an advisory urging OTT services to adhere to Indian laws. Officials claimed that certain platforms featured explicit sexual content with minimal narrative or contextual justification, and in some cases depicted inappropriate themes.
Concerns over compliance
Government sources have also alleged that some previously blocked platforms attempted to resume operations through new web domains. In earlier cases, regulators claimed that content removals were sometimes temporary, with material later re-uploaded.
The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) had flagged some OTT platforms in 2024 over alleged violations related to content standards.
Legal framework
Under existing rules, the government can instruct internet service providers to restrict access to digital platforms found to be in violation of laws, including those concerning obscenity. The Information Technology Rules, 2021, are intended to promote compliance, maintain public decency, and regulate digital media practices.
At the time of writing, none of the five newly blocked platforms had issued a public response.
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