The notification issued on Monday has also been signed the Indian President Ram NathKovind and will be the first to govern the online content in the country. I&B Ministry regulations will now be binding on all the online news portals as well as news content published or shared on various social media sites like Twitter and Facebook.
Governing Bodies for News and Media in India
PCI or the Press Council of India is responsible for keeping a check on print media and the NBA or the News Broadcasters Association is responsible for governing TV news channels. Additionally, Advertising Standards Council of India and Central Board of Film Certification are responsible for advertising and films respectively.While there are various autonomous bodies for other mediums of journalism, there was none for the New Media/ digital content. BOYCOTT TANISHQ: IS THERE ANYTHING WRONG WITH THE TANISHQ ADVERTISEMENT? Latest government orders have also come after the Apex Court recently sought centre’s response on a petition for regulating OTT platforms by an autonomous body. In the petition heard last month, Supreme Court had issued notices to the Centre, Ministry of I&B as well as to the Internet and Mobile Association of India. Over the top platforms which are often simply referred to as OTT platforms include both online news portals as well as streaming services like Prime and Netflix. OTT platforms by definition refer to all portals and platforms which ride on an operator’s network or are accessible over the internet. NETFLIX INDIA PLANS VS DISNEY+ HOTSTAR VS VOOT: THE BETTER HOME MOVIE DEAL Digital media and streaming platforms had become well known to provide more creative freedom to both artists and film makers in contrast to the Censor Board worries in traditional media. They have also encompassed much popularity among viewers in the recent years. However, it may all change soon with the government’s latest orders. Share your thoughts on OTT streaming services and news portals going under the government control in the comments below. Also Read: CHROMECAST WITH GOOGLE TV INDIA: THE BEST STREAMING STICK