Netizens react as government bans 24 OTT platforms due to vulgar and obscene content

On Friday, the government announced that 24 OTT platforms, including ULLU, Big Shots App, ALTT, and many more, will be banned in the country for streaming soft pornographic content. Sources told PTI that the ban comes in light of repeated violations of multiple laws and for promoting "indecent" representation of women.

The move was met with sweeping positive remarks across the internet, many lauding the government’s decisive action on the much-awaited ban. One user praised it as the “Best decision!!”

A cyber awareness page on X (formerly Twitter) was thankful to the government for taking action, but also suggested better regulation of such content on platforms. 

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) has also issued a directive to all Internet Service Providers (ISPs) in the country to block public access to 24 websites. “Well done, govt,” one user reacted. 

While many were grateful to the government, they also shed light on the various other platforms that callously showcase explicit content, including X, Reddit, and Telegram. One user noted: 

The cry for a ban on these platforms has been long, loud, and clear, as many users had earlier complained about the vulgar content present on their websites, calling it “cultural sabotage”. 

OTT platform ULLU had faced legal trouble in May when the Mumbai police issued an FIR against the host and producers of Ullu’s House Arrest for alleged obscene and pornographic remarks made on the reality show. Ajaz Khan, the host of the show, faced backlash from authorities and social media alike. One user noted that the show “crossed all limits of obscenity”. 

The All India Cine Workers Association (AICWA) also condemned the show’s makers and urged the government to take appropriate action.