The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) on Monday issued an advisory to publishers of online curated content and their self-regulatory bodies, urging them to exercise due caution and discretion while releasing films, web series, biopics, or documentaries, particularly those based on gangsters and criminals.

The advisory, circulated through a communication dated October 22, 2021, reminds streaming platforms and regulatory bodies of their responsibility to ensure that online content does not compromise India’s sovereignty and integrity, threaten the security of the State, harm relations with foreign countries, or incite violence and disturb public order.

This renewed direction from the Ministry serves as a reiteration of its earlier communication, which called upon self-regulatory bodies of publishers of online curated content—commonly referred to as OTT platforms—to advise their member services accordingly. The MIB emphasized that platforms should remain vigilant, particularly while streaming content that originates from foreign countries, and maintain sensitivity towards India’s national interests and public harmony.

The advisory draws reference to the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, which lay down the framework for ethical content dissemination by digital media and OTT services. It further reminds platforms of the importance of adhering to these regulations before transmitting or publishing any material that could be construed as controversial or detrimental to the country’s image.

Deputy Secretary (Digital Media), Arpitha S, who issued the advisory, underlined that the Ministry expects both self-regulatory bodies and OTT platforms to remain compliant and proactive in monitoring their content. The note, addressed jointly to the publishers of online curated content and their self-regulatory organizations, also reiterates that due diligence must be exercised, especially in cases dealing with sensitive or real-life subjects.

The Ministry’s latest communication underscores its ongoing efforts to maintain accountability and ethical responsibility within India’s rapidly growing digital entertainment ecosystem, while ensuring that creative expression remains balanced with national interest and societal sensitivity.