The unexpected nationwide lockdown and almost 6,780 movie theatres across the country forced to shut down has come as a boon to OTT platforms which noted a substantial surge in new subscriptions in the past few months.
With online space having lesser restrictions when compared to the theatrical prints, various noted filmmakers were seen making an OTT debut while many big-budgeted films as well saw an OTT release.
However, several complaints from the public underlining the concern and need to regulate online content turned debatable with leading OTT platforms taking the liberty of fewer regulations.
In the line of the new resolutions made by Information and Broadcasting Ministry, OTT platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, SonyLIV, ZEE5, Disney Plus Hotstar and many other news websites, will now come under the purview of the Ministry.
Though not official, it was speculated that the ministry would set up a committee to look into concerns and frame the regulations.
The model was largely rejected because it did not define the code of ethics and was not clear on the definition of prohibited content. It may also be recalled that the Supreme Court of India last month had issued notice to the Centre and the Internet and Mobile Association of India, on a petition to regulate OTT platforms.
