The debate surrounding censorship on OTT platforms in India has intensified in recent years, with discussions rising over the language, visuals, and narrative formats used in digital entertainment. As the popularity of online streaming surged, so did public and political scrutiny, raising questions about whether OTT content would come under the same certification framework as theatrical releases. For a period, there were reports hinting at the possibility of the Central Board of Film Certification extending its jurisdiction to OTT platforms, suggesting a major shift that could have reshaped streaming content in India.
However, the latest development brings clarity to the conversation. The CBFC has officially communicated that it will not certify or examine OTT content, confirming that digital streaming platforms will remain outside its certification mandate. This announcement puts an end to months of speculation and reinforces the current legal structure governing digital media. OTT content continues to fall under Part III of the Information Technology Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code Rules, 2021. These rules ensure platforms avoid content prohibited by law and follow age-based classification practices, helping viewers make informed choices.
The existing framework outlines a three-tier system designed to maintain accountability without centralized censorship. At Level I, publishers are required to self-regulate their content. Level II involves self-regulating bodies established by publishers, offering another layer of oversight. Level III places responsibility on the central government to monitor adherence and address grievances. Together, these measures create a collaborative structure rather than a censor-based system. With CBFC withdrawing from the picture, the responsibility rests solely with OTT publishers to ensure that content streamed in India aligns with legal and ethical guidelines. Platforms that fail to meet these standards risk facing legal and regulatory consequences. The announcement strengthens the role of responsible storytelling on digital platforms and marks a significant moment in the evolution of India’s streaming ecosystem.
