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A recent report from a reputable news publication has claimed that the Union Government has reached an “uneasy compromise” with OTT (over-the-top) streaming services regarding the inclusion of smoking warnings in their content. The report further asserts that some platforms have opted for less obtrusive warnings as a result of this agreement. It is important to clarify that these claims are unfounded and misleading, based on misrepresented facts.
In prioritizing public health, the Government of India has extended the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products (COTP) film rules to include OTT platforms. The OTT rules of 2023 came into effect on September 1st, 2023. According to these regulations, all OTT platforms, including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney + Hotstar, Jio Cinema, Sony LIV, ALTBalaji, Voot, etc., are required to prominently display anti-tobacco health spots, an anti-tobacco health warning as a static message, and an audio-visual disclaimer on the adverse effects of tobacco use, as prescribed by the rules.
This decisive action by the Government has received commendation from various public health organizations and experts. By bringing OTT platforms under the purview of tobacco control rules, India has taken a pioneering role in global tobacco control efforts.
Therefore, the media report does not present accurate information and fails to capture the Union Government’s steadfast commitment to enhancing public health as a foremost responsibility. All OTT platforms are obligated to strictly adhere to the provisions of the OTT Rules of 2023, which came into effect on September 1st, 2023. There has been no compromise on these rules, and the Government will take appropriate action in the event of any non-compliance.
