OTT platforms fear there will be censorship of web series, movies
- IndiaGlitz, [Wednesday,November 11 2020]
The Centre on Wednesday brought all online media content under the ambit of the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting. Films, OTT platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime, audiovisual programmes by content providers, digital news and current affairs content will be regulated by the Ministry.
This has sparked apprehension in OTT platforms, which have hitherto enjoyed unlimited freedom. So far, only offended viewers used to run boycott campaigns. From now, censorship could come from the regulators, which can potentially come under pressure from vested interests.
OTT platforms like Netflix and Hotstar have enjoyed all the freedom with regards to the choice of content, subscription rates, certification for adult movies, etc., says an explanatory report by Indian Express. How many of these freedoms will go away is to be seen.
If the regulation is too much, OTT platforms might have to apply for certification and approval of the curated content. While curated content will be regulated, user-generated content (read YouTube) will not be regulated by the Ministry.