Is the OTT platform becoming a haven for vulgarity and obscenity? Why are stars not happy with it?

A key change brought about by the digital revolution is the emergence of Over The Top (OTT) platforms. Once, movies were only screened in theaters and aired on TV. However, with the advent of OTT, this tradition has completely transformed. The use of smartphones has led to the widespread adoption of OTT platforms. Nevertheless, controversies surrounding the content aired on OTT platforms have been apparent since their inception. Recently, this issue has escalated, with even Bollywood star Salman Khan expressing his discontent with OTT platforms.

OTT platforms have been in operation for quite some time, but it was during the coronavirus pandemic that they truly became popular among the masses. With theaters closed, entertainment became scarce for moviegoers, and people had to stay indoors. Consequently, many people developed a habit of watching movies and series on their TVs and phones. As the user base grew rapidly, OTT platforms strove to captivate their audiences even more. However, in the process of expanding their market and business, some platforms have crossed the line with their content. To quickly attract users, they have engaged in the use of explicit language, bold scenes, and provocative content.

There is no censorship of content on OTT platforms, which has led to an increase in vulgarity and obscenity. Filmmakers have been given free rein, and the public’s appreciation has further fueled their enthusiasm. Actors and actresses have also had to adapt to this trend. Gradually, the prevalence of indecent scenes, obscene language, vulgarity, and intense violence has increased. OTT series has had a significant impact on viewers by using explicit language that would not have been used in public spaces. Many people cite the recently released web series ‘Rana Naidu’ as an example of this issue. A prominent star actress and BJP leader, Vijayashanti, has also expressed her discontent with this series.

Why is there no censorship?

Censorship for OTT platforms presents a considerable challenge. A petition was even submitted to the Supreme Court advocating for the censorship of OTT content. The court examined the benefits and drawbacks of censorship and ultimately determined that implementing censorship for web series could be difficult. This is because web series tend to be longer in duration, making it challenging to review the entire series for censorship purposes. Additionally, since OTT content is available worldwide, censorship regulations may vary between countries, creating another obstacle.

Is censorship beneficial?

Provocative speeches tend to attract people easily, and since OTT platforms are accessible to everyone, such content can attract a wide audience. The outcomes of such content are unpredictable, which is why censorship has its advantages. It can help prevent hate speech and content that violates a country’s sovereignty. Censorship of OTT content can also protect children from harmful content.

Why not have censorship for OTT content?

The ongoing debate on whether or not OTT content should be subject to censorship continues. Opponents of censorship argue that some movies can only be made with certain liberties and that it is necessary for the final product to be good. They also point out that censorship may result in the exclusion of certain topics and hinder the creative expression of filmmakers, resulting in a lack of diverse content.

However, the argument that OTT content does more harm than good cannot be ignored. It is said that the use of vulgar language in OTT content can influence viewers to use such language themselves, leading to issues for others. Even prominent figures in the film industry, like Salman Khan and Vijayashanthi, have raised concerns about the need for censorship of OTT content.

Some OTT platforms are specifically targeting adult content. Platforms like Alt Balaji, Ullu App, GupChup, Fenio Movies, Hotshot, 8Shots, and Fizz Movies are broadcasting adult content in large numbers, causing further concerns about the need for censorship.

Here are some of the top adult OTT series in India:

Class of 2020

This series revolves around the lives of students, their relationships, drug use, and sexual encounters. It spans 32 episodes.

Four More Shots Please

This series follows the story of four women as they navigate through life. It is available to stream on Amazon Prime.

Made in Heaven

This series explores the complexities of modern day marriages. It was released in 2019.

Gandi Baat

This series is famous in India for its adult content and bold scenes. However, it has a poor rating on IMDb.

Maya: Slaves of Her Desire

This series contains strong sexual content and is not suitable for sensitive viewers. It tells the story of a woman’s journey to reclaim her past. It has a rating of 5.5 on IMDb.