The Indian government has once again shaken the digital world. On July 23, 2025, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) banned 25 OTT platforms and cracked down on betting apps in its biggest-ever digital cleanup. Popular apps like ULLU, ALTT, and Desiflix have been permanently blocked, leaving millions of users and creators in shock.
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25 OTT Platforms Banned in One Day
This is India’s largest single-day ban on OTT apps. The Ministry ordered Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to immediately block access, marking a turning point in how India regulates digital content.
Complete List of OTT Platforms Banned in July 2025
| 🚫 Banned OTT Platform | Reason Mentioned |
|---|---|
| ULLU | Obscene content |
| ALTT | Adult-themed series |
| Desiflix | Regional erotic content |
| Big Shots App | Adult entertainment |
| Boomex | Vulgar streaming |
| Navarasa Lite | Objectionable scenes |
| Gulab App | Sexual content |
| Kangan App | Erotic shows |
| Bull App | Explicit videos |
| Jalva App | Soft porn |
| Wow Entertainment | Vulgar web series |
| Look Entertainment | Indecent shows |
| Hitprime | Adult dramas |
| Feneo | Inappropriate themes |
| ShowX | Obscene films |
| Sol Talkies | Soft porn focus |
| Adda TV | Adult-focused |
| HotX VIP | Vulgarity allegations |
| Hulchul App | Sexually explicit scenes |
| MoodX | Erotic streaming |
| NeonX VIP | Soft porn |
| Fugi | Adult focus |
| Mojflix | Objectionable content |
| Triflicks | Vulgar shows |
This list represents platforms specifically targeted for promoting obscene, pornographic, and culturally inappropriate material.
Why Did the Government Ban These Apps?
The government made it clear that this wasn’t an impulsive move. It followed months of warnings, user complaints, and regulatory checks.
Main Reasons Behind the Ban:
- Obscene Content Streaming – Soft porn disguised as “erotic web series.”
- Indecent Representation of Women – Misuse of women’s dignity in digital media.
- Violation of Indian Laws & Cultural Norms – Vulgarity without artistic purpose.
- Public Complaints – Citizens reported concerns about exposure to children.
Legal Framework Used:
- Information Technology Act, 2000
- Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (New Criminal Law Code)
- Indecent Representation of Women (Prohibition) Act
- IT Rules, 2021 (Intermediary Guidelines & Digital Media Ethics Code)
Betting & Gambling Apps Also Under Fire
Alongside OTT bans, the Online Gaming Bill 2025 introduced stricter rules for money-based games and betting apps.
Measures Taken Against Betting Apps:
- Payment gateways blocked for gambling apps.
- Strict age verification for online games.
- State-level bans implemented in multiple regions.
- Restrictions on advertising gambling content.
This shows that the crackdown is not just about entertainment, but also about protecting users from financial exploitation and addiction.
How Was the Ban Implemented?
The ban was swift and highly coordinated.
- Decision Date: July 23, 2025
- Execution: ISPs were instructed to block all listed apps & websites.
- Scope: 26 websites + 14 apps went offline instantly.
- Coordination: Action involved the Ministry of Home Affairs, IT Ministry, Women & Child Development, and Law & Justice.
Public Reaction – Divided Opinions
Supporters Say:
- Parents happy about reduced exposure to children.
- Women’s groups praise the move.
- Traditional & cultural groups back the ban.
Critics Say:
- Creators fear loss of creative freedom.
- Digital activists worry about excessive censorship.
- Industry experts warn of an economic slowdown in OTT space.
Conclusion
The ban on 25 OTT apps and stricter rules on betting platforms mark a new era of digital regulation in India.
Key Takeaways:
- Largest single-day crackdown in India’s OTT history.
- Platforms like ULLU, ALTT, Desiflix banned for obscene content.
- Users should shift to legal OTT apps to avoid penalties.
- The move highlights India’s focus on cultural values, women’s dignity, and safe digital space.