The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) has formed an informal panel to examine concerns around content available on OTT platforms and consider possible regulatory measures. The development comes nearly two years after RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat raised concerns about OTT content and called for legal regulation of digital media.
The panel is expected to study the issue and eventually submit recommendations to the Union Ministry of Culture and other relevant government stakeholders.
Panel Includes Education and Culture Experts
According to reports, the panel includes former vice-chancellors and RSS pracharaks associated with the fields of education and culture. The group was formed a few months ago and held its first meeting in August 2026.
The panel does not currently have a fixed deadline for submitting its recommendations. Before preparing its final proposal, members are expected to consult legal experts and others familiar with digital media and regulation.
The RSS has described the initiative as an effort to examine what it considers problematic or objectionable content on streaming platforms and its potential impact on families and younger audiences.
Mohan Bhagwat Had Raised Concerns in 2024
The latest development follows comments made by Mohan Bhagwat during his Vijayadashami address in Nagpur on October 12, 2024.
At the time, Bhagwat criticised certain content available on OTT platforms and argued that digital media required greater legal regulation. He had linked such content to what he described as moral corruption and raised concerns about its influence on society.
The formation of the panel indicates that the issue has continued to remain a subject of discussion within the RSS.
Why OTT Regulation Is Being Discussed
The regulatory framework for OTT platforms differs from the system governing films released in theatres.
The Central Board of Film Certification certifies theatrical films under the Cinematograph Act, 1952. OTT platforms, meanwhile, operate under the Information Technology Rules, 2021, which include a Code of Ethics and a three-tier grievance redressal mechanism.
There is currently no equivalent pre-certification body for OTT content.
The absence of such a system has led to continuing discussions about whether additional regulation is required for streaming platforms.
Government Has Already Taken Action Against OTT Platforms
The debate comes as the government has already taken enforcement action against certain OTT platforms.
In July 2026, the government informed Parliament that 50 OTT platforms had been disabled for public access in India over the previous two years. The action was linked to allegations involving obscene content and violations of applicable provisions of the IT Act, the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Indecent Representation of Women (Prohibition) Act.
What Happens Next
The RSS panel is expected to develop a proposal after further discussions and consultations. Its recommendations could potentially include a regulatory mechanism similar to a censor board for OTT platforms.
However, no formal government decision to establish such a body has been announced. Any new regulatory framework would ultimately require consideration by the relevant government authorities, along with legal and policy discussions around digital content, freedom of expression and consumer protection.
