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Major OTT platforms such as Netflix, Hotstar, Voot, Zee5, Arre, SonyLIV, ALTBalaji and Eros Now have signed a code of best practices to self-regulate content under the Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI). The principle idea behind the move is purportedly to strike a balance between creative freedom and protecting consumer interests.
The objectives of the code are to:
According to an earlier report by Reuters, the initial draft of the code sought to prohibit content that shows a child “engaged in real or simulated sexual activities”, is disrespectful of India’s national flag or encourages “terrorism”. It also said that companies which sign it will bar content “which deliberately and maliciously intends to outrage religious sentiments of any class, section or community. In addition, the signatory companies were to internally appoint a person, team or department to receive and address any “consumer-related concerns and complaints”.
The report also stated that though it helped to draft it, Amazon Prime Video has decided to refrain from signing the code as it was not a government-mandated regulation . In a statement the platform said that it was assessing the situation but believes “the current laws are adequate”.
(With inputs from Reuters)
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