OTT Freedom for Adults, Safety for Children: Why India Needs a National Child Safe OTT Framework
A Public-Interest Proposal for Safer Digital Entertainment The rapid growth of OTT platforms has transformed the way Indians watch films, web series and other digital entertainment. People can now access a vast variety of content from the comfort of their homes. This freedom of choice is valuable and should be preserved. At the same time, however, there is an important issue that deserves greater public and policy attention: How can we protect children from accidental exposure to adult-oriented content when OTT programmes are watched in ordinary family homes? My suggestion is simple: India should explore a technology-based National Child Safe OTT Framework that protects children without imposing blanket censorship on legally permissible adult content. The Difference Between a Cinema Hall and a Family Home In a cinema hall, people generally choose a particular show and enter a controlled environment. Age restrictions and other safeguards can be applied at the point of entry. The s...