As of May 5, 2025, the Indian government is actively considering the introduction of a stringent law to regulate obscene and violent content on social media and OTT platforms. This initiative follows growing concerns raised by Members of Parliament and Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw regarding the misuse of freedom of expression to showcase inappropriate content online.

Shiv Sena MP Naresh Mhaske recently highlighted this issue, quoting Minister Vaishnaw, who confirmed that the government is contemplating the implementation of a strict law or censorship mechanism to address the proliferation of vulgar and violent content targeting youth.

This development is part of ongoing efforts by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to review existing laws and assess the need for a new legal framework to regulate digital platforms. The government has previously issued advisories to OTT platforms and engaged in discussions with industry bodies to address concerns over obscene content.

The Supreme Court of India has also expressed the need for legislative action to regulate obscene content on social media and OTT platforms, indicating that the government should take steps to address this issue.

The proposed law aims to curb the dissemination of inappropriate content online, balancing the need for regulation with the protection of freedom of expression. The government is expected to continue deliberations on this matter in the coming weeks.

Sources