Centre to enforce rules against vulgar content on social media and streaming platforms
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New Delhi: The Centre has submitted an affidavit to the Delhi High Court, affirming its commitment to introducing rules and regulations within its policy framework to curb the presence of vulgar language and profanity on social media platforms and streaming platforms.
The Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY) presented the affidavit in response to the high court's earlier directives, demonstrating its responsiveness to the concerns expressed by the court.
The high court had emphasised the pressing need for establishing rules and guidelines to regulate content on social media and Over-The-Top (OTT) platforms, especially considering the accessibility of such platforms to young children.
Justice Swarna Kanta Sharma's order on August 17th encapsulated the Ministry's affirmation within the context of a policy decision. The court recognised the incorporation of measures to regulate social media platforms and intermediaries, ensuring their spaces remain free from vulgarity, as a significant step in line with the court's directions.
The high court had specifically highlighted the use of vulgar language, obscenities, and profanities on public domains and social media platforms. It underscored the potential negative impact such content can have on children and the larger society. The court's concerns were particularly prominent in light of the TVF web series 'College Romance,' where the use of offensive language was a central issue.
In its verdict on March 6, the high court upheld an order by the Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate (ACMM), directing the Delhi Police to register an FIR against TVF, the show's director Simarpreet Singh, and actor Apoorva Arora under the Information Technology Act. The court's ruling did not include directions for arrest.
The high court's verdict recognised the global challenge faced by numerous countries, including India, in enacting appropriate laws and guidelines to regulate content on social media and OTT platforms. The court particularly emphasised the urgency of addressing this challenge.
In an effort to substantiate the concerns raised, the court mentioned the excessive use of swear words, profane language, and vulgar expletives in 'College Romance.' The court stated that the nature of such content warranted watching the series with earphones due to its shocking and alarming nature.
With the Ministry's assurance and compliance, the high court concluded the matter, expressing confidence that the government's commitment will be reflected in the future rules and regulations governing content on digital platforms.
