India bans streaming of Pakistani content on OTT platforms citing national security concerns

The Indian government has directed OTT platforms and streaming services to immediately stop streaming content originating from Pakistan, citing concerns over national security, public order, and India’s diplomatic interests under IT Rules 2021.

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Image Credit: Asianet News

In a significant move, the Government of India has directed all online streaming platforms, including OTT services and digital intermediaries, to immediately halt the streaming of content originating from Pakistan. The directive, issued by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB), cites national security concerns and the need to uphold the sovereignty and integrity of India.

According to the official advisory dated May 8, 2025, addressed to publishers of online curated content, media streaming platforms, and intermediaries, the decision is based on provisions under Part-III of the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021. These rules empower the government to enforce a Code of Ethics for online platforms, particularly concerning content that may harm the interests of the nation.

The Code of Ethics requires publishers to carefully evaluate any content that could:

• Affect the sovereignty and integrity of India,
• Threaten national security,
• Damage India’s relations with friendly foreign countries, or
• Incite violence or disturb public order.

In line with these regulations, the advisory specifically mentions that all OTT platforms and media streaming services must “discontinue the web-series, films, songs, podcasts and other streaming media content, whether made available on a subscription-based model or otherwise, having its origins in Pakistan with immediate effect.”

This blanket directive comes amid heightened tensions between India and Pakistan following recent terror-related incidents and ongoing diplomatic friction. Officials believe content originating from Pakistan could potentially contain narratives or messaging that run counter to India’s national interest, either explicitly or implicitly.

The Ministry also reminded platforms that Rule 3(1)(b) of the IT Rules mandates intermediaries to make reasonable efforts to ensure their services are not used to threaten national unity, integrity, defense, or public order. This includes responsibility for monitoring, removing, or disabling access to problematic content even if it is hosted or curated by third parties.

While the advisory does not name specific platforms or content titles, it effectively applies to all Indian and international streaming services operating within Indian jurisdiction. Industry insiders expect platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and YouTube to begin internal compliance reviews immediately.

Critics, however, have raised concerns about censorship and the potential implications for artistic expression and cross-border cultural exchange. Free speech advocates argue that a total ban based solely on the origin of content may be overbroad and counterproductive.

As of now, no official Pakistani response has been issued. However, observers note that the move could further strain already delicate people-to-people ties between the two countries.

This development adds to a series of content and trade restrictions imposed between India and Pakistan in recent years, reflecting a hardening policy posture on both sides. Streaming platforms will now be required to tread carefully when curating or licensing any international content that may have links to countries flagged by Indian authorities.