OTT platforms advised to remove content of Pak-origin

NEW DELHI: The I&B ministry Thursday issued an advisory directing all OTT platforms, media streaming services, and digital intermediaries operating in India to immediately discontinue content originating from Pakistan, citing national security and public order concerns. The advisory strongly "urged" platforms to take down web series, films, songs, and podcasts produced in or by entities linked to Pakistan.Referring to the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, govt underscored the responsibility of digital publishers to avoid content that could affect India's sovereignty, integrity, or foreign relations. The advisory calls for platforms to refrain from hosting or transmitting any content deemed contrary to national interest.The directive covers all categories of Pakistan-origin content, regardless of if they are behind a paywall or freely accessible. Industry associations are likely to seek consultations with the ministry to seek clarity and a more structured compliance mechanism. tnn