Ashwini Vaishnaw Calls for Stronger Regulations on Social Media, OTT Content

Union Minister of information and broadcasting Ashwini Vaishnaw highlighted the need to strengthen the existing laws regulating social media and OTT platforms in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday.

While addressing a parliamentary question Vaishnaw stated, “We are living in the era of social media and OTT platforms. However, the democratic institutions and traditional forms of the press that once relied on editorial checks to ensure accountability and correctness of content have seen these checks diminish over time.” 

He noted that the lack of editorial oversight, social media has turned into a platform for freedom of press on the one hand and also becoming a space for unchecked expression, which often features inappropriate content.

Recognizing the distinct cultural differences between India and the regions where these platforms originated, Vaishnaw highlighted that India's cultural sensitivities are vastly different. This, he said, makes it essential to strengthen existing laws in India, urging all stakeholders to reach a consensus on the issue.

The minister also urged the parliamentary standing committee to prioritize the issue, stating, "There should be a societal consensus on it, along with stricter laws to address this challenge."

In February 2021, the government strengthened its control over digital and OTT platforms by introducing a three-tier system, described as a "soft-touch regulatory architecture." The first two tiers established self-regulation by the platforms, while the third created an oversight mechanism managed by central government officials.