On September 4, 2020, 15 OTT platforms signed the Universal Self-Regulation Code for Online Curated Content Providers (OCCPs). The OTT platforms that signed the code are:-

·       Zee5

·       Viacom 18

·       Disney Hotstar

·       Amazon Prime Video

·       Netflix, MX Player

·       Jio Cinema

·       Eros Now

·       Alt Balaji

·       Arre

·       HoiChoi

·       Hungama

·       Shemaroo

·       Discovery Plus

·       Flickstree

Nine streaming platforms in India had first announced the self-regulation code in January 2019 to avoid the government-led censorship.  The existing censorship law under the Cinematograph Act does not include OTT platforms. There was an ongoing discussion about whether or not censorship is needed for OTT platforms since nowadays there is too much violence and sex in web series and films. The move to sign the pact is to keep censorship at bay and to allow creative freedom to content makers.

The Universal Self-Regulation Code includes a framework for age classification and content descriptions for titles as well as access control tools. The Code also introduces a clear, transparent and structured grievance redressal and escalation mechanism for reporting non-compliance with the prescribed guidelines.

Each OCCP will have set up a Consumer Complaints Department or an internal committee as well as an advisory panel which will deal with complaints, appeals and escalations. The advisory panel will constitute a minimum of three members, including an independent external advisor and two senior executives of the respective OCCP.

The Code is effective from August 15, 2020. The code was unveiled by The Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI, which represents digital businesses in India.

References: 

• https://www.hindustantimes.com/bollywood/ott-platforms-sign-self-regulation-code-in-india-here-s-what-the-platforms-and-experts-have-to-say-about-it/story-WJKgyvV8Fo1c9fhBgk1XJJ.html
• https://swarajyamag.com/insta/15-ott-platforms-including-netflix-and-amazon-prime-video-sign-self-regulation-code
• https://www.iamai.in/
• https://www.medianama.com/2020/09/223-iamai-occp-self-regulation-summary/