Government's New Bill May Restrict OTT Platforms and Free Speech

The Modi government is set to introduce a new broadcasting bill that could significantly affect online content creation in India. The Broadcasting Services (Regulation) Bill, 2024 aims to regulate online content, which might restrict the freedom of content creators to share their work.

A notable change in the new draft is the classification of regular social media contributors, such as video uploaders, podcasters, and writers of current affairs, as "digital news broadcasters." This broadens the definition of “news and current affairs programs” to include textual content along with traditional audio-visual formats. As a result, written posts, images, and other transmitted signals via broadcasting networks will also fall under regulation.

This draft bill comes in the wake of recent Indian elections where independent YouTube news channels offered alternative viewpoints, often contrasting mainstream media narratives that align with government perspectives. According to the new bill, anyone sharing news online will have to adhere to strict regulations, potentially limiting their ability to report freely and express opinions.

Content creators for platforms like Netflix and Disney+ may face new rules similar to those for traditional TV. This means they might need to alter or remove parts of their content to comply with the guidelines, avoiding penalties like fines or temporary bans. Content creators, crucial to platforms like Netflix and YouTube, have not been consulted in the discussions about the bill, and the draft is not available to the public. This lack of transparency is seen as unfair since their work will be directly impacted.

The new regulations could stifle the creativity of content creators and reduce the variety of content available to viewers. Both creators and viewers are questioning why the government isn’t making the draft bill public and including them in the decision-making process. Viewers might face fewer choices and more edited content on streaming services. The new rules could mean that some shows and movies enjoyed currently may be changed or removed, limiting viewing options.

It's important for everyone affected to voice their concerns to the government, ensuring their opinions are considered before the bill is finalized.