Centre Plans Mandatory Censorship for OTT Movies and Digital Content

The Central Government is preparing a major policy change that could bring OTT films under a mandatory certification process similar to movies released in theatres. The proposed move is expected to reshape India’s digital entertainment landscape by introducing pre release scrutiny for online content.

The Information and Broadcasting Ministry is working on a new regulatory framework that would require films released directly on OTT platforms to obtain certification before streaming. At present, most digital releases are available without prior approval from the Central Board of Film Certification.

The proposal comes amid growing concerns over objectionable scenes, excessive violence and content considered harmful to public order in some recently released films and web series. Officials believe a stronger regulatory mechanism is needed to ensure digital content complies with legal and cultural standards.

One of the government’s key objectives is to prevent films that fail to receive theatrical certification from bypassing the system through direct OTT releases. Under the proposed rules, movies rejected or restricted for cinema release may no longer be allowed to appear on streaming platforms without meeting the required guidelines.

The government is also examining whether web series should be included under the same certification system. Discussions are reportedly focusing on complaints related to explicit language, graphic violence and sensitive religious themes that have appeared in several digital productions.

Detailed guidelines and legal provisions for the proposed policy are expected to be announced in the coming weeks. The move has already sparked widespread discussion across the entertainment industry, including filmmakers and major streaming platforms operating in India.