Navigating Media Regulation and Censorship in Over-The-Top (OTT) Platforms

Navigating Media Regulation and Censorship in Over-The-Top (OTT) Platforms Trilok Kumar Singh, Research Scholar, School of Journalism and Mass Communication, K.R. Mangalam University, Gurugram. Email: [email protected], [email protected] Neeraj Khattri, Professor and Dean, School of Mass Communication, IMS Unison University. Abstract In India, the rapid growth of social media and Over-The-Top (OTT) platforms has been both accessible and inclusive, but it poses several challenges to the existing regulatory framework. The study brings attention to the growing significance of regulatory bodies regarding the same. It emphasizes the regulatory hurdles that these platforms encounter, such as ensuring compliance with guidelines, addressing concerns related to explicit content, and adapting to evolving technologies. This paper delves into the ongoing discussions and debates surrounding censorship and content regulation within digital media. This includes considerations about what content is permissible, how to protect users from harmful material, and the balance between creative freedom and responsible content consumption. The study also underscores the complex interplay between OTT platforms, regulatory frameworks, and societal expectations regarding content in the digital age. Keywords: Censorship, Policies, OTT platforms, TRAI, Digital Media, Media Regulation