The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) has proposed significant updates to India’s digital content regulations, aiming to strengthen accountability, protect viewers, and establish clearer boundaries for online platforms. The draft proposal suggests new standards for obscenity and an expanded ethics code applicable to OTT services, digital news publishers, and social media platforms.
According to officials, the move comes amid rising concerns over explicit content, misinformation, and inconsistent self-regulation within the digital ecosystem. The updated framework is expected to introduce stricter definitions of objectionable material, clearer age-rating requirements, and improved content disclosures to help viewers make informed choices.
The proposal also recommends enhancing grievance-redressal mechanisms, ensuring faster response times, and increasing responsibility on platforms to monitor and act on flagged content. Industry bodies and digital publishers are expected to review the draft and submit feedback before final rules are notified.
While supporters believe the overhaul will create a safer and more transparent online environment, some digital creators and free-speech advocates have raised concerns about potential censorship and creative limitations. The ministry has stated that the goal is not to curb artistic expression but to establish balanced, responsible, and accountable digital regulation.
The final guidelines will be announced after stakeholder consultations, marking a crucial step in shaping the future of India’s fast-growing digital content landscape.
