The Digital Media Content Regulatory Council (DMCRC) has issued an advisory on vulgarity, obscenity and profanity in OTT content.
Follows I&B Ministry concern that some platforms have been resorting to projection of excessive vulgarity, obscenity and profanity in their content.
The advisory signed by Justice Mukul Mudgal (Retd.), Chairperson, DMCRC, reads:
“Since its formation more than two years ago, the Digital Media Content Regulatory Council (DMCRC) has reasserted the point that OTT platforms in India follow the self-regulatory framework. All member platforms of DMCRC must be praised for abiding by the norms of self-regulation and exercising restraint in showing objectionable content.
“Recently, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has expressed concern that some delinquent platforms have been resorting to projection of excessive vulgarity, obscenity and profanity in their content.
“The Council believes that the member platforms of DMCRC have been abiding by the self-regulatory framework. Since it is a continuous process, the platforms need to consistently adhere with the same and stay within the sacrosanct boundaries of our constitutional framework. The Council is of the firm view that it is desirable that OTT platforms continue keeping the sensibilities of our diverse society and culture in mind while producing content. The content shown by the platforms has a deep impact on society. The platforms have the freedom to tell stories the way they wish to, but it should be done after due diligence and with responsibility. This is the essence of content self-regulation.”
In the light of recent request by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to reinforce this essence of self-regulation, DMCRC advises its member OCCPs to continue observing the following:
- Exercise due restraint and responsibility during content creation;
- Self-introspect to strengthen the framework and overall functioning of OTT platforms;
- Avoid unnecessary vulgarity and abusive content without justification;
- Conduct frequent meetings with content creators/production houses to sensitize them;
- Ensure that the content is in due compliance with the self-regulation framework including the Code of Ethics;
- Ensure an accessible system to lodge content-related grievances;
- Build access controls to empower the consumer in making content choices with complete awareness and knowledge;
- Increase awareness of available controls.”
Feedback: [email protected]
