There have been calls to regulate the platforms after a row for two web shows. (Figurative)
New Delhi:
The government will soon release the guidelines for OTT platforms, Union Minister Prakash Javadekar said in parliament today, weeks after a controversy over two programs.
“We received many suggestions and complaints. The guidelines and instructions are almost ready and will be implemented soon,” Javadekar said in OTT or Over The Top content.
The government had put OTT platforms, such as Netflix, as well as news and current content on online platforms under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and gave it powers to regulate policies and rules for digital space in November last year.
There have been calls to regulate the wildly popular platforms after a dispute over two series on Amazon Prime: “Tandav” and “Mirzapur.”
The creators of “Tandav”, a political thriller starring Saif Ali Khan and Dimple Kapadia, were forced to leave parts after a backlash over accusations of hurting religious sentiments. At least three cases were brought against the creators and actors of “Tandav” for allegedly inappropriate portrayal of UP police officers, deities, and adverse portrayal of a character who plays the prime minister on the show.
“Mirzapur” also faced ban requests on charges of “smearing the image of Uttar Pradesh”.
A petition to the Supreme Court suggested that a government panel screen shows or movies released on streaming platforms.
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