Context:

It has been two years since the government issued the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules through which the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (I&B) was given the task of regulating content on OTT and online platforms. 

India’s approach:

• It is a light-touch ‘co-regulation’ model where there is ‘self-regulation’ at the industry level and final ‘oversight mechanism’ at the Ministry level. 

About the Rules:

• The Rules provide for a grievance redressal mechanism and a code of ethics. 
• They mandate access control mechanisms, including parental locks, for content classified as U/A 13+ or higher and a reliable age verification mechanism for programmes classified as ‘A’ (18+).

Issues With the Rules:

• There is little awareness about them among the general public.

• In many cases, either the complaint redressal information is not published or published in a manner that makes it difficult for a user to notice easily.
• In some cases, the details are not included as part of the OTT app interface. 

Steps needed to be taken:

• A periodic audit of OTT platforms may be undertaken by an independent body. 
• The full description of complaints received by OTT providers and self-regulatory bodies and decisions given thereon may be published in the public domain.
• The Ministry could consider facilitating a dedicated umbrella website, which will be visible for the public and government authorities. This approach will aid in enhancing transparency.
• There is no provision for the disclosure or publication of an apology/warning/censure on the platform or website. This may be incorporated in the Rules. 
• Financial penalties on erring entities may also be provided. 

News Source: The Hindu