Fifteen online streaming platforms, including Netflix, Amazon Prime and Hotstar, have signed the Universal Self-Regulation Code for OCCP (Online CuratedContent providers) in India.
Introduced by the Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI), the code is an agreement between streaming services to self-regulate their content.
What is the Universal Self-Regulation Code for OCCP?
As the name suggests, this is a set of common guidelines that the signatories have agreed to follow. Streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Zee5, etc. have accepted these guidelines.
The code will focus on classifying content for different age groups and other measures to deliver appropriate content to their audience. In addition, it would also provide a complaints mechanism to report non-compliance.
A declaration published by IAMAI says, "The purpose of this industry-wide effort is to give consumers information and tools to help them make informed choices regarding viewing decisions for them and their families."
The signatories of this code are Zee5, Viacom 18, Disney Hotstar, Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, MX Player, Jio Cinema, Eros Now, Alt Balaji, Arre, HoiChoi, Hungama, Shemaroo, Discovery Plus and Flickstree.
Regulations so far
OCCP or online streaming platforms had no formal regulatory guidance until now. One of the reasons is the sheer volume of content on these platforms. With the current growth of OCCP, it will be a gigantic task for any government to regulate all content.
However, with the signing of the Universal Self-Regulation Code, the platforms have accepted a certain degree of self-correction. This will likely keep the possibility of government intervention at bay.
