In a bold move to regulate digital content, the Indian government has banned over 25 OTT platforms including popular names like ULLU, ALT Balaji (now ALTT), and Big Shots for allegedly streaming obscene and sexually explicit material. This decision has sent shockwaves across the digital entertainment landscape, raising urgent conversations about content regulation, online freedom, and the evolving OTT market.
Key Details on OTT Ban
| Name | Ban Date | Main Reason | Notable Offenses |
|---|---|---|---|
| ULLU | July 25, 2025 | Obscene/pornographic content | Nudity, lack of social message |
| ALT Balaji/ALTT | July 25, 2025 | Indecent representation of women | Sexually explicit material |
| Big Shots | July 25, 2025 | Explicit adult visual content | No age-verification, crude plots |
Why Were These OTT Apps Banned?
Content: Streaming of nudity and sexually explicit visuals, described as pornographic in nature, often without any significant storyline or social message.
Legal Framework: Violations under Section 67 and 67A of the Information Technology Act, Section 294 of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (2023), and the Indecent Representation of Women (Prohibition) Act.
Government Rationale: Easy access for minors and lack of robust age/censorship checks heightened concern for public morality.
Consultation: Action was taken in light of complaints and after consultation with women and child rights bodies, legal affairs, and media industry associations
What Happened and Why?
How Did the Ban Unfold?
On July 25, 2025, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) issued directives to internet service providers to disable public access to a list of OTT apps and websites including ULLU, ALT Balaji, Big Shots, Desiflix, and more.
Reasons Behind the Crackdown
- Obscene Content: Prolonged scenes of nudity and explicit sexual acts presented without meaningful plots.
- Lack of Age Filters: Most banned platforms had no age verification system, exposing minors to adult material.
- Legal Breaches: Content was flagged under multiple laws for indecent and vulgar representation, especially of women.
Reactions From Industry and Public
Immediate Fallout
- Social Media Buzz: Memes and debates erupted across platforms, with criticism and support for the move.
- Clarifications by Brands: Ektaa Kapoor stated that she and her company were not associated with ALTT since June 2021.
- Public Opinion: Many lauded the government for regulating explicit content, while others voiced concerns over censorship and creative freedom.
The Complete List of OTT Platforms Banned
| No. | Banned Platform |
|---|---|
| 1 | ULLU |
| 2 | ALTT (ALT Balaji) |
| 3 | Big Shots App |
| 4 | Desiflix |
| 5 | Boomex |
| 6 | Navarasa Lite |
| 7 | Gulab App |
| 8 | Kangan App |
| 9 | Bull App |
| 10 | Jalva App |
| 11 | ShowHit |
| 12 | Adda TV |
| 13 | HotX VIP |
| 14 | Wow Entertainment |
| 15 | Hitprime |
| 16 | Feneo |
| 17 | ShowX |
| 18 | Sol Talkies |
| 19 | Hulchul App |
| 20 | MoodX |
| 21 | NeonX VIP |
| 22 | Fugi |
| 23 | Mojflix |
| 24 | Triflicks |
| 25 | Stark Prime |
Hindi
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why did the government ban ULLU, ALT Balaji, and Big Shots?
The government banned these platforms for streaming vulgar, obscene, and sometimes pornographic content that violated Indian laws designed to protect public decency and prevent indecent portrayal of women.
What are the key laws invoked in this ban?
The authorities acted under Section 67 & 67A of the Information Technology Act (2000), Section 294 of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (2023), and the Indecent Representation of Women (Prohibition) Act (1986).
Are there alternatives to these banned OTT platforms?
Yes, viewers can switch to regulated streaming platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, Disney+ Hotstar, and Zee5, which have robust parental controls and adhere to Indian content guidelines.
4. Can I access these apps outside India?
While the ban applies within Indian jurisdiction, these apps may remain accessible in other countries. However, accessing banned content from India using VPNs may still be illegal and is not recommended.
5. How can users verify OTT platforms are safe and legal?
Always check for platform certifications, parental controls, and user reviews on trusted e-commerce portals like Amazon and Flipkart. Platforms like Xiaomi’s MiTV also prioritize safe, curated content for families.
Key Takeaways
The government has banned 25+ OTT platforms, including ULLU, ALT Balaji, and Big Shots, for alleged violations of Indian law and public decency.
Major infractions: Lack of age verification, repeated focus on sexually explicit scenes with little/no story, and absence of content moderation.
Action underscores growing scrutiny of digital platforms and a renewed focus on user safety and content regulation.
Stay tuned for comparison guides, streaming reviews, and more updates on the OTT landscape post-ban!