Digital Content Moderation

Amid the controversy surrounding remarks made by YouTuber and podcaster Ranveer Allahbadia on comedian Samay Raina’s YouTube show India’s Got Latent, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) has reiterated the importance of adhering to the Information Technology (IT) Rules, 2021. According to a Livemint report, the MIB has advised OTT platforms and social media networks to ensure compliance with content regulations, particularly regarding age-based classifications. The ministry emphasized self-regulation and the need for strict adherence to guidelines for content rated “A”, aiming to protect children from exposure to inappropriate material. Government’s Advisory on OTT and Social Media Following public backlash over Allahbadia’s comments regarding parents and sex, the MIB issued an official advisory, marking the second reminder in two months on content regulation. The ministry highlighted concerns raised by Members of Parliament, statutory bodies, and the general public over the alleged spread of obscene and vulgar content on digital platforms. The advisory stated: “OTT platforms must comply with applicable laws and the Code of Ethics under IT Rules, 2021, particularly in maintaining age-based content classification. Self-regulatory bodies of these platforms should proactively take action against violations of the Code of Ethics.” Parliament & Supreme Court’s Response The issue has also reached the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Information Technology and Communications, which expressed concerns about the lack of proper regulation of digital content. Lawmakers have called for stricter enforcement of IT laws to prevent the spread of explicit material. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court weighed in on the matter while hearing Allahbadia’s bail plea. With multiple FIRs filed against him across states for obscenity, the top court granted interim protection from arrest but issued strong warnings regarding online content moderation. The Supreme Court observed: Social media influencers must be mindful of their societal impact. Popularity does not grant immunity from accountability. Freedom of speech has limitations and does not justify inappropriate remarks. A bench of judges remarked: “Would anyone find such language acceptable in any setting? He is insulting people, including parents. His mindset, reflected in his words, is deeply troubling.” The court also hinted at government inaction in regulating digital platforms, stating: “If the government does not take action, we will step in. There is a regulatory vacuum that needs to be addressed.” With growing scrutiny, the controversy has reignited debates over freedom of expression, content moderation, and government intervention in digital media.