In response to increasing complaints about Over-The-Top (OTT) platforms, Indian government is drafting a new broadcast policy aim at regulating their content. Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting and Parliamentary Affairs, L. Murugan, announce on that the ministry is evaluating industry feedback and public input to refine its approach before formally introducing the policy in Parliament.
The revision follows concerns that OTT services are not adhering to existing self-regulatory guidelines.
L. Murugan said that these platforms have introduce measures such as viewer age classifications and content advisories, the effectiveness and consistency of these self-regulation practices have question by both the public and industry insiders.
As of now, OTT services display disclaimers, tagging content for mature audiences or advising parental guidance when necessary.
These classifications intend to help viewers make inform choices.
L. Murugan said that despite these steps, a significant number of complaints have receive.
Complainants point out that these platforms sometimes fail to follow the guidelines consistently.
The Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting and Parliamentary Affairs has taken steps to establish a structure policy framework for regulating online content, now inviting public and industry feedback to ensure it reflects broad stakeholder consensus.
Government is exploring options to permit private FM channels to broadcast news bulletins, potentially extending beyond the state-run All India Radio.
Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting and Parliamentary Affairs share that comprehensive consultations are ongoing with relevant stakeholders to evaluate the impact and feasibility of this move.
This decision will be made after assessing the viewpoints gathered from industry representatives.
Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting and Parliamentary Affairs is also progressing with plans to increase the reach of FM radio by auctioning licenses for 730 new private FM channels in 234 cities across India.
Joint Secretary Sanjiv Shankar, present at an outreach programme in Chennai, inform attendees that the new licences would cover towns and cities across states, including Tamil Nadu, with a pre-bid meeting schedule in Delhi later October.
