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What TV doesn't, print can't; we deliver.
A legal proceeding has been initiated against streaming platforms Netflix, ALTT, and X (formerly Twitter) over alleged broadcasting of sexually explicit content.
NEW DELHI: A legal proceeding has been initiated against streaming platforms Netflix, ALTT, and X (formerly Twitter) over alleged broadcasting of sexually explicit content.
At a press conference held at the Press Club of India, Uday Mahurkar, Founder of the Save Culture Save Bharat Foundation, was joined by Sanjeev Newar, Founder of Gems of Bollywood, and Supreme Court advocate Vineet Jindal. They collectively voiced concerns about the negative social impact of such content.
“The Delhi Police refused to file an FIR based on my complaint against Netflix, ALTT, and X for disseminating explicit material of an appalling nature,” Mahurkar stated. “This stands in contrast to the Mumbai Police, which filed an FIR against Ekta Kapoor and Shobha Kapoor for producing content violating the POCSO Act. The complaint names Jitendra Kapoor, Shobha Kapoor, and Ekta R. Kapoor as they are promoters of ALTT.”
Mahurkar expressed the need for judicial intervention, claiming the Delhi Police’s refusal to take action had forced him to approach the courts. He alleged that platforms such as X feature graphic content, including videos depicting hardcore pornography, nudity, and even bestiality. According to Mahurkar, ALTT’s offerings often include scenes of incest and abuse, and Netflix has also been accused of streaming content deemed inappropriate by Indian standards.
He emphasized, “The spread of such content is not just a moral issue; it is inciting sexual violence and disrupting the social fabric of our nation. It is one of the primary reasons for the increase in rape cases in India.”
The Foundation claimed that sexually explicit content has contributed to severe rape cases, including those involving minors. Mahurkar cited recent incidents where minors committed violent acts after allegedly viewing pornographic content.
The complaints filed by Mahurkar reference alleged violations of several Indian laws, including the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, the Information Technology Act, the Indecent Representation of Women (Prohibition) Act, and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
Advocate Vineet Jindal supported Mahurkar’s statements, saying, “The availability of such content on public platforms directly influences crimes such as rape, molestation, and sexual offenses against children. This material pollutes the minds of both the young and the old, creating a toxic culture that glorifies violence and distorts human behavior. Immediate legal intervention is necessary to prevent this epidemic from spreading further.”
Jindal further highlighted that platforms such as Netflix, ALTT, and X allegedly disregard Indian laws aimed at safeguarding societal values and dignity. “The uncontrolled spread of such content is a gross violation of these laws, jeopardizing India’s goal of becoming a great nation by 2047,” he remarked.
In September 2024, the Foundation organized a public hearing (Jan Sunwae), where over 100 survivors and family members of sexual violence reportedly called for the removal of explicit content from all platforms. More than 200 women allegedly testified, attributing their abuse to offenders influenced by explicit material on these platforms.
Newar, founder of Gems of Bollywood, argued that these platforms promote content that undermines traditional values. “We are witnessing an erosion of cultural values disguised as entertainment,” Newar stated. He claimed that explicit scenes harm society and have a particularly detrimental effect on children exposed to such material.
The Foundation has called for a complete ban on platforms involved in the distribution of explicit content. Mahurkar suggested the introduction of stricter laws to control the portrayal of themes, language, and scenes in audio-visual productions. He proposed harsher penalties, recommending 10 to 20 years of imprisonment and a minimum three-year denial of bail for violators.
Jindal echoed Mahurkar’s demand for a zero-tolerance approach, stating, “We need laws that deter not only the producers but also the distributors of such material. A zero-tolerance policy is the only way forward if we are to build a safer and more respectful society.”
The Save Culture Save Bharat Foundation reported gaining substantial public backing, with millions joining their movement against explicit content. Mahurkar reiterated the Foundation’s commitment to this cause, emphasizing ongoing efforts through public engagement, legal challenges, and advocacy for policy reform.
“Today’s event is a significant step toward holding creators and distributors accountable,” Mahurkar concluded. “It is time for these platforms to comply or face legal consequences.”
