The Centre explained OTT content regulations under IT Rules 2021, including Code of Ethics, content classification norms and the three-tier complaint redressal mechanism for digital platforms.
New Delhi: The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has informed the Rajya Sabha about the regulatory framework for OTT platforms and digital media publishers under the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021.
Union Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting and Parliamentary Affairs L Murugan provided the details in a written reply to a question raised by Parliamentarian Haris Beeran.
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What are the IT Rules, 2021?
The government notified the IT (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021 on February 25, 2021, under the Information Technology Act, 2000.
The rules established an institutional mechanism for publishers of digital news and online curated content, including OTT platforms, to ensure accountability and responsible publishing practices.
What rules do OTT platforms have to follow?
Under Part III of the IT Rules, OTT platforms are required to follow a Code of Ethics while providing online content.
The guidelines require platforms to ensure that content prohibited by law is not transmitted and to exercise due caution while publishing and classifying content.
OTT content classification is based on several factors, including:
- Themes and messages
- Violence
- Nudity
- Sexual content
- Language
- Drug and substance abuse
- Horror
The rules also include classification requirements for content involving psychotropic substances, liquor, smoking, tobacco use and imitable behaviour.
How does the OTT complaint system work?
The Centre said complaints related to alleged violations of the Code of Ethics by OTT platforms are addressed through a three-tier grievance redressal mechanism under the IT Rules.
Complaints received by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting are forwarded to the concerned OTT platforms for resolution as per the prescribed process.
The mechanism allows platforms and authorities to examine complaints related to online content and take action according to the rules.
Centre’s advisory on narcotics-related content
The government informed Parliament that the Ministry issued an advisory to OTT platforms on November 26, 2024, regarding content related to narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances.
The advisory was issued to encourage platforms to exercise caution while streaming content involving sensitive issues such as drug use and substance abuse.
The expansion of digital streaming platforms has increased discussions around content classification, user protection and accountability.
Through the IT Rules, 2021, the government has created a framework for OTT platforms and digital publishers to classify content, address complaints and follow ethical guidelines while operating in India.
Published: 07 Aug 2026, 09:52 pm IST
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