Tech
Government Bans 25 OTT Platforms Including ULLU, ALTT for Violating Content Norms
What Triggered the Ban?
In a significant move to regulate online streaming content, the Indian government has blocked 25 OTT platforms, including popular apps like ULLU and ALTBalaji (ALTT), for airing vulgar, obscene, and pornographic material.
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB), in coordination with MeitY, the Ministry of Home Affairs, and law enforcement agencies, took action after multiple complaints and legal violations were noted.
These platforms were found streaming content that objectified women, promoted indecent acts, or lacked any social narrative, often under the guise of adult web series or reality shows.
Full List of Banned OTT Platforms
Here are the 25 OTT platforms now blocked in India:
- ALTBalaji (ALTT)
- ULLU
- Big Shots App
- Desiflix
- Boomex
- NeonX VIP
- Navarasa Lite
- Gulab App
- Kangan App
- Bull App
- ShowHit
- Jalva App
- Wow Entertainment
- Look Entertainment
- Hitprime
- Fugi
- Feneo
- ShowX
- Sol Talkies
- Adda TV
- HotX VIP
- Hulchul App
- MoodX
- Triflicks
- MojFlix
The platforms are now inaccessible through ISPs and their mobile apps have been delisted from app stores.
What Legal Provisions Were Violated?
The platforms were found in violation of:
- Section 67 and 67A of the Information Technology Act, 2000 (related to publishing sexually explicit content).
- Section 4 of the Indecent Representation of Women (Prohibition) Act, 1986.
- Section 294 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 (equivalent to obscenity laws).
These laws aim to protect the public, particularly minors, from exposure to inappropriate content online.
Past Warnings Ignored
This action didn’t come without prior notice. Several advisories and notices were issued by:
- Digital Publisher Content Grievance Council (DPCGC)
- National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR)
- MIB’s Intermediary Guidelines advisory
OTT apps like ULLU even took down shows like House Arrest temporarily in May 2025, but later re-uploaded edited versions, indicating blatant non-compliance.
What Happens Next?
The government has reiterated its zero-tolerance policy toward platforms that disregard content guidelines. Experts believe this may set a precedent for more stringent OTT regulations and mandatory certification, similar to CBFC rules for films.
Meanwhile, platforms with self-regulation mechanisms and clean content remain unaffected.