Supreme Court Raises Concerns Over Explicit Content on OTT and Social Media, Directs Government to Act
New Delhi, April 29, 2025: The Supreme Court of India has expressed grave concerns regarding the availability of sexually explicit content on OTT platforms and social media. The court has urged the government to take necessary action to regulate such material.
A bench consisting of Justices BR Gavai and Augustine George Masih issued a notice to the Centre and other relevant parties following a petition seeking a ban on the streaming of explicit content. The petition also proposed the establishment of a National Content Control Authority to monitor and regulate online platforms.
During the proceedings, Justice Gavai acknowledged the significance of the issue but emphasized that regulating digital content largely falls under the jurisdiction of the executive and legislature. “We are already facing accusations of encroaching upon legislative and executive functions,” Justice Gavai remarked.
The petition, filed by five individuals and represented by Advocate Vishnu Shankar Jain, calls for:
- A complete ban on sexually explicit content on OTT and social media platforms.
- The formation of a National Content Control Authority to oversee the regulation of online content.
While the court expressed concern over the matter, it clarified that enacting laws and regulations rests with the government and Parliament. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the Centre, was directed to review the issue and consider appropriate action.
The case will be heard again after the Centre and other concerned parties submit their responses.
