Techbytes: India cracks down on 25 streaming apps over ‘obscene’ content (TechCrunch)

In one of its largest digital crackdowns yet, India has ordered the blocking of 25 streaming platforms accused of promoting “obscene” content, targeting apps with millions of users and significant subscriber bases.

According to TechCrunch, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting directed internet service providers and major app stores — including Google Play and the Apple App Store — to restrict access to platforms such as Ullu and ALTT, which have gained mass-market popularity for their adult and edgy content.

The action is rooted in provisions of the Information Technology Act of 2000 and the IT Rules of 2021. It follows mounting pressure from the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights and a Parliamentary Committee concerned about the lack of safeguards for mature content.

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Despite the order, several platforms reportedly remained accessible at the time of reporting.

Neither Google, Apple, nor the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting have commented on the matter.

App analytics shared with TechCrunch show that 10 of the 25 apps generated $5.7 million through in-app purchases, with total downloads nearing 105 million.

Their low-cost subscriptions, much cheaper than those of giants like Netflix, have helped them scale rapidly.

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