The Ministry of Data and Broadcasting (MIB) has issued a brand new advisory to Over-the-High (OTT) platforms, urging them to be cautious about streaming content material that may unintentionally glamorise or promote the usage of narcotic medication and psychotropic substances. The advisory emphasises the potential unfavorable influence these portrayals may have, notably on youthful audiences.
The advisory comes forward of a key assembly scheduled for December 20, the place a Parliamentary Committee will have interaction with numerous stakeholders to debate content material laws on OTT platforms.
The advisory cites the Data Know-how (Middleman Tips and Digital Media Ethics Code) Guidelines, 2021, which require content material publishers to keep away from airing materials prohibited by legislation or court docket orders. It emphasises stricter classification for content material associated to substances like medication, alcohol, and tobacco, particularly when concentrating on youthful viewers.
The advisory outlines a number of key factors for OTT platforms concerning content material that includes medication and substance abuse. First, it mandates larger classification scores for content material that depicts drug use or doubtlessly dangerous behaviour that would incite prison exercise or self-harm. This ensures that such content material is appropriately restricted, notably for youthful viewers. Moreover, platforms are urged to keep away from glamorising drug use, emphasizing that any portrayal of substance abuse mustn’t make such behaviour seem trendy or socially acceptable.
The advisory additionally reminds platforms of the Narcotic Medication and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985, which criminalises the promotion and use of gear like hashish, cocaine, and poppy. Glamorous depictions of drug use may very well be seen as encouraging or abetting such actions, resulting in potential authorized penalties. Lastly, platforms are suggested to incorporate disclaimers and warnings in content material that options drug use, highlighting the dangerous results of substance abuse. They’re additionally inspired to contribute to public well being initiatives by creating instructional content material that raises consciousness concerning the risks of medication.
The MIB has additionally confused the necessity for OTT platforms to align their content material with fashionable social requirements. Platforms are urged to take duty for the potential influence of their content material on public opinion and conduct, notably in terms of delicate points like drug use. The Ministry highlighted that any content material which may negatively affect viewers, particularly youthful ones, have to be prevented as a way to keep moral and social duty.
Along with these pointers, the Ministry made it clear that failure to stick to those guidelines may invite stricter laws. Platforms that don’t comply might face elevated scrutiny beneath the Data Know-how Act, 2000, and the Narcotic Medication and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985.
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