Netflix, Amazon Prime, 15 other OTT platforms adopt self-regulation ‘tool kit’: Report

The IAMAI, in a statement, said that through this toolkit, the signatories address the feedback on the issues of conflict of interest and prohibited content received from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.

“The core purpose of this ‘tool kit’ is to provide for procedures to effectuate the various provisions of the code; assist the signatories in fulfilling their commitments and responsibilities as set out in the code, and to achieve effective self-regulation goals as envisioned by the signatories in the code,” the statement further read.

The adoption of this self-regulation code by streaming service providers comes after the content on OTT platforms became a bone of contention with the government following various complaints.

The latest controversy involved the Saif Ali Khan-starrer political thriller ‘Tandav’ on Amazon Prime. Complaints said the show hurt religious sentiments following which the government sought a response from its makers. The cast and crew had then issued an apology.

In September, at least 15 OTT platforms had signed a “Universal Self-Regulation Code for Online Curated Content Providers”. The government had, however, rejected it.

On Tuesday, replying to a Zero Hour mention, Information and Broadcasting Minister Prakash Javadekar said a lot of suggestions and complaints on the regulation of OTTs have been received.

“Guidelines and direction are almost ready. It will soon be implemented,” he said.

Earlier, raising the issue, Mahesh Poddar of the BJP said the content and language on OTT platforms was discriminatory and offensive.

Objectional content on OTT platforms includes sexual discrimination and abusive language, Poddar said, adding that the government should, without delay, implement the Internet regulations.

The latest toolkit adopted by these platforms suggests the companies set up internal committees to address complaints by users, government bodies or regulators.

“Each Signatory has undertaken to constitute an Advisory Panel to decide on the complaints when the complainant is (a) dissatisfied with the decision of the CCD/Internal Committee and (b) requests an escalation in respect of the complaint filed with the CCD/Internal Committee (sic),” it added.