India Blocks Five OTT Platforms Over Obscene Content

Government Takes Action Against Content Violations

The Indian government, through its Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB), has ordered the blocking of five over-the-top (OTT) media service platforms. The platforms, identified as MoodXVIP, Koyal Playpro, Digi Movieplex, Feel, and Jugnu, were found to be streaming content deemed obscene, vulgar, and sexually explicit. This action was initiated on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, following due procedure and numerous grievances received against these platforms.

Legal Framework and Reasons for the Ban

The decision to block these platforms was made under the provisions of the Information Technology Act, 2000, specifically Section 69A, and the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021 (IT Rules, 2021). These legal frameworks empower the government to restrict access to online content that violates established norms. Officials stated that the content hosted by these platforms included 'graphic sexual innuendos, long sequences of nudity, and pornographic visuals,' often lacking any 'storyline, theme, or message in a social context.' Some content also allegedly depicted 'inappropriate sexual situations involving family members,' raising significant public concern.

Directives to Internet Service Providers

As part of the blocking procedure, the MIB has directed Internet Service Providers (ISPs) across India to restrict access to the websites and mobile applications associated with these five platforms. This measure aims to prevent users within the country from accessing the identified content. The government's objective behind these rules is to 'maintain public decency, safeguard national interests, and enforce ethical journalistic practices across digital platforms,' while also protecting viewers, particularly minors, from exposure to harmful material.

Precedent and Ongoing Regulatory Scrutiny

This is not an isolated incident but rather a continuation of the government's efforts to regulate digital content. In July 2025, the MIB had previously ordered the blocking of 25 OTT platforms, including prominent names like Ullu, ALTT, and Big Shots App, for similar violations of streaming obscene and pornographic material. Prior warnings were issued to these platforms in September 2024, followed by an advisory in February 2025, urging compliance with Indian laws and the Code of Ethics under the IT Rules, 2021. Reports indicate that some platforms previously blocked in March 2024 had allegedly resumed operations by launching new domains, prompting continued vigilance from the authorities.