Satluj Controversy Latest: One possible amendment proposed by the central government for India’s regulations in digital entertainment includes CBFC certification of films released on the platform of OTTs. This comes after the controversy involving the movie “Satluj” by Diljit Dosanjh, which was first made available online through ZEE5 before getting removed due to government intervention.
If this move is enacted, there will be a need for an amendment in the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, where the OTT release of films becomes subject to certification like the theatrical release of movies.
Also Read: Diljit Dosanjh’s Satluj Removed From ZEE5 Worldwide After India Ban
Why the Government is Making This Move?
At present, films shown in cinemas need CBFC certification before being screened in front of the audience. In contrast, films released on OTTs do not fall under this rule but under the IT Rules, 2021.
It has been reported by the government sources that the centre is currently reviewing this framework, and amendments will be made to ensure that the films released through OTT platforms will also get scrutinized by the CBFC before getting released to the audience.
This indicates the growing fear about the regulation of digital content and tries to establish a uniform system for certification of films irrespective of their theatrical or online release.
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Satluj Controversy Explained
Following the controversy that arose due to the release of Satluj, a movie featuring Diljit Dosanjh and directed by Honey Trehan on ZEE5 citing national security concerns, the film was pulled down within two days of its release from ZEE5 on July 3 after an order was issued by the government on national security grounds.
As per the reports, the center-constituted committee that reviewed Satluj has recommended the continuation of the ban on its public stream because of the fears expressed by them that this film questions the sovereignty and integrity of the country.
As per the reports, the government may also initiate proceedings against ZEE5 for releasing the film when it was said to be under the process of certification by CBFC.
Role of Section 69A in OTT Regulation
As per the current legal structure, OTT content comes under Part III of the IT Rules, 2021, which gives the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting the right to use Section 69A of the Information Technology Act in case of necessity.
Section 69A allows the government to block online content due to various reasons, including national security, defense, sovereignty, public order, and good diplomatic relationships with foreign countries. The officials used such provisions while ordering ZEE5 to take Satluj down from their website.
Also Read: Diljit Dosanjh’s ‘Satluj’ Removed From ZEE5 India Days After Release Amid Fresh Censorship Row
Implications of the Proposed Rule Change
In case these changes to the IT Rules get passed, every movie that is supposed to be streamed straight through OTT channels (without any theatrical run) will have to receive the CBFC certification before its streaming.
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