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The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has issued an advisory warning OTT platforms against streaming content that “inadvertently promotes, glamorizes, or glorifies” the use of drugs, saying that any violation of the relevant guidelines may result in further regulatory scrutiny.
“It has come to the notice of the Ministry that certain streaming content available on OTT platforms is inadvertently promoting, glamorizing or glorifying the use of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances through such depictions by the main protagonists and other actors. Such depictions have a serious impact, especially on the young and impressionable audiences.” In terms of impact,” the consultant said.
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The ministry said the code of conduct for OTT platforms states that a publisher must not broadcast, publish or display content prohibited under any law or by any court of competent jurisdiction. Citing the rules, it has issued specific instructions in the interest of the safety of the general public, especially the youth.
OTT platforms streaming content in India have been advised that movies or serials, etc. which generally depict abuse of psychotropic substances, alcohol, smoking, and tobacco will qualify for higher age-based classification. Depictions of potentially dangerous behavior that could provoke the commission of any crime, including outbreaks of self-harm, and could potentially be copied by children and young people, will receive a higher classification.
“OTT platforms must ensure that the content they host does not in any way glamorize or promote the consumption of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances. Where drug use is part of a story or narrative, the portrayal of consumption as ‘fashionable’ or ‘acceptable’ in society should be avoided. “It said.
Sections 15, 16, 17, 18 and 20 of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act punish the use of cannabis, poppy and coca-based drugs, while Section 27 of the Act punishes the consumption of any narcotic or psychotropic drugs. Substances, the ministry said: “Promotion/glamorization of such substances through content on the OTT platforms may be punishable under Section 29 of the Act to incite such use or consumption.”
“Platforms are advised to keep in mind the provisions under the IT (Information Technology) Rules, 2021 and ensure proper content classification, warnings and disclaimers for any content depicting drug use, highlighting the harmful consequences of such behaviour,” the advisory said.
It added: “Platforms to include public health messages and disclaimers, educate viewers about the dangers of drug abuse, especially in programs where drug use is part of the story. Also to support the creation and promotion of content, including documentaries depicting the adverse health effects of drug abuse, under corporate social responsibility.” Advised.”
Urging all platforms to take care of their social responsibility to shape public opinion and behavior through the entertainment content they provide, the ministry has requested them to voluntarily follow the guidelines in the larger public interest.
“Non-compliance may lead to further regulatory scrutiny, particularly in light of the provisions of the Information Technology Act, 2000, read with the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act (NDPS), 1985,” it said. The advisory is also shared with self-regulatory bodies of OTT platforms.
published – December 16, 2024 at 11:13 am IST