Introduction:-
Hi friends, I'm Aniket Kumar, a first year BA.LLB law student at Mumbai University. As you guys know that the internet is our go to place for entertainment and information, but do you know what’s actually illegal to watch in India? its a small thing which we ignore but it significantly affects on our country image and security of our country citizens as per law. Let’s break it down clearly, in easy language, so anyone whether you speak simple English or not can understand their rights and risks, in a simple way because its our aim in lawbreif.in to simplify everything for their viewers.
1. Obscene or Indecent Content (IT Act, 2000)
- Law: Sections 67, 67A of the Information Technology Act, 2000, prohibit uploading or sharing “obscene” content online.
- What Counts, in a simple way: Anything that's sexually explicit, indecent, or meant to offend community standards.
- Practical Tip: Being watched privately, like adult content in your room, isn’t illegal but sharing or streaming it publicly is illegal, especially on OTT or social media.
2. Child Sexual Abuse Material (POCSO, IPC, IT Act)
- Law: Under the POCSO Act, 2012, Sections 292/293 IPC, and IT Act, any porn involving minors is strictly illegal.
- Zero Tolerance: Watching, downloading, or possessing child pornography even privately is a serious offence with severe penalties, as per law.
- Safety Tip: Avoid every site or link that might have underage content just one click can land you in trouble, if found.
3. OTT Platforms Showing Obscene Content
- Law: Section 69A in the IT Act empowers the government to block or ban online content deemed “obscene” or harmful.
- Reality Check: In 2024, more than 18 OTT apps were banned for showing explicit/adult shows.
- Lesson: Even on Netflix or local apps, avoid content flagged “X” or “Explicit.” The government may block such apps/or ads quickly.
4. Copyright Piracy Illegal Streaming & Downloads
- Law: Copyright Act, 1957, implements criminal action for reproducing or distributing copyrighted content without permission.
- Big Problem: India made 7 billion visits to piracy sites in 2022, 1 out of 2 streaming users accessed pirated content.
- Loss Numbers: In 2023, piracy cost the entertainment industry over ₹22,400 crore; streaming alone lost ₹8,700 crore.
- Why It Matters: Watching movies or sports for free on illegal sites is a crime and harms everyone artists, creators, even the GST earned by the country.
5. Sabotage or Terror Content
- Law: IT Act Sections 66F, 69A, 79, Unlawful Activities (UAPA), prohibit watching or downloading extremist or terrorist material.
- No Grey Area: Any content that supports terror ideologies, violent extremism, or provides instructions is criminal.
- Who Watches?: Usually investigators, but if someone watches or shares it, it may alert police under cyber-terror laws.
6. Defamation & Hate Speech
- Law: IT Act Section 66A was struck down, but defamation laws (IPC 499–500) still apply online.
- Be Careful: Watching or downloading defamatory videos isn't illegal but sharing or posting them publicly can make you liable.
- Smart Tip: Don’t spread rumors or hate speeches even if you’re convinced they're true.
7. Privacy Violation by Voyeurism (IPC 354C)
- Law: IPC Section 354C (Voyeurism) prohibits watching or recording someone in private without their consent.
- Important Note: Downloading secret videos of someone in private even accidentally can be illegal.
- Tip: Only view content if you're sure it was recorded and shared legally.
8. Fake News & Propaganda
- Law: IT Rules 2021 govern online content; Section 69A allows banning content that threatens public order.
- Warning: Watching propaganda or false videos on unverified platforms may not be illegal but sharing them can be illegal or harmful.
- Tip: Stick to verified channels like government portals, leading news sites, and mainstream media only.
Quick Stats Snapshot
55% of households still watch pirate content in India, despite over 530 OTT options.
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₹22,400 crore lost in digital piracy in 2023, ₹8,700 crore from OTT alone .
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18 OTT apps banned for obscene content in 2024.
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Child pornography possession is punishable by up to 7 years or life imprisonment.
Bottom Line: What You Should and Shouldn't Watch
Allowed (Watch Privately) | Illegal to Watch |
---|---|
Standard porn (private room) | Obscene videos shared publicly |
Legal OTT content | Child pornography |
News, documentaries | Pirated movies/sports on illegal sites |
Educational content | Terrorist, extremist videos |
Personal chats & videos | Voyeurism recordings |
Entertainment on paid platforms | Defamatory/hate content you share |
How to Stay Safe Online
- Use legal OTT platforms (Netflix, Hotstar, Jio).
- Don’t forward or share obscene or defamatory content.
- Report violent/extremist videos to cyber police.
- Stay updated on digital laws and IT rules.
Conclusion
The internet gives us great freedom, but with it comes the responsibility to know what’s legal and what’s not. Always think before you watch or share: “Is this legal? Who made it available? Can I prove consent?”
With a few simple rules, no pirated content, no obscene materials, no child pornography, no extremist videos you can enjoy the internet safely, respectfully, and within the law. Stay aware, stay protected, and stay smart online.
This article is for informational purposes only please consult a legal expert for personal advice. Sources: IT Act 2000, Copyright Act 1957, IPC, POCSO, Statista, EY/IAMAI “Rob Report”, Piracy Monitor, Law Trend, LawBhoomi.
1 Comments
Thanks for informing
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