Govt warns OTT, social media platforms after Allahbadia row

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The North News

New Delhi, February 20

The Centre government has issued a strict advisory to social media and OTT platforms, urging them to comply with the Information Technology Rules, 2021, and strengthen self-regulation following a controversy involving podcaster Ranveer Allahbadia. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting stressed that platforms must prevent the spread of obscene and vulgar content, enforce age-based classification, and ensure restricted access to ‘A’-rated material. It warned of legal action under various laws, including the IT Act and POCSO Act, if violations persist.

The advisory follows a Supreme Court hearing in which Allahbadia, facing multiple FIRs over controversial remarks, was granted interim protection but criticized for using “perverted” language. The Court condemned his comments as a societal embarrassment, reinforcing the need for responsible media conduct.