Netflix OTT Show Facing Casteist Complaints? What's Happening?
The Ministry has been asked to investigate whether the series violates human rights or promotes discrimination through its portrayal of characters and themes.;
Netflix is one of the top OTT platforms in the country and they are known for coming up with abrasive content that generally leads to a lot of discussion. In this context, the leading platform of facing complaints about casteism and here’s a look into the same.
The National Human Rights Commission has taken notice of a complaint filed against a Netflix web series titled Rishwatkhor Pandat. The complaint claims that the series shows a particular caste community in a negative and offensive way. It alleges that the content promotes caste based stereotypes and hurts the dignity and social image of that community.
After reviewing the complaint, the NHRC said the issue is serious and needs proper examination. The Commission has directed the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to look into the matter in detail.
The Ministry has been asked to investigate whether the series violates human rights or promotes discrimination through its portrayal of characters and themes.
The NHRC has also asked the Ministry to submit an Action Taken Report within two weeks. This direction has been given under the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993. The report should clearly mention what steps were taken after receiving the complaint and what findings came out of the investigation.
The Commission stressed that freedom of expression should not come at the cost of insulting or stereotyping any community. It reminded content creators and streaming platforms that they have a responsibility to ensure their content does not harm social harmony or promote discrimination in society.