Government Bans 25 OTT Platforms Including ALTBalaji and Ullu Over Obscene Content

The central government has ordered the blocking of 25 over-the-top (OTT) platforms and their related mobile apps, including well-known brands like ALTBalaji (ALTT) and Ullu, as part of a massive crackdown on digital content. The action was taken after authorities discovered that these platforms were allegedly disseminating pornographic, obscene, and vulgar content.
The decision was made after multiple platforms were discovered to be in "serious violation" of Indian laws governing online content, according to official sources. According to reports, the prohibited platforms included videos and web series that were deemed pornographic by authorities because they contained "sexual innuendos" and, frequently, explicit nudity scenes.
A source involved in the investigation noted that much of the content lacked any real plot, theme, or social message. “The focus was largely on vulgar visuals rather than meaningful storytelling,” the source said.
While the government has not yet issued a formal public notification, it has invoked provisions under the Information Technology Act, 2000, and the IT Rules of 2021 to instruct intermediaries and internet providers to disable access to the websites and apps in question.
Here’s the full list of the 25 OTT platforms banned in this latest action:
* 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 government had previously urged streaming services to follow self-regulatory guidelines to avoid such action. However, this recent move signals a tougher stance on platforms that fail to comply with content regulations.
An official said, “This action underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring that digital platforms operate within the boundaries of decency and the law.”
