Regulatory Mechanisms For Over The Top (OTT) Communication Services

Aman Kumar & Chirag Yadav, BA LLB (Hons.), ICFAI University

ABSTRACT

The explosive growth of Over-the-Top (OTT) communication services has revolutionized content consumption and communication paradigms. However, this digital landscape presentsa complex regulatory challenge, balancing innovation and user freedom with concerns about harmful content, data privacy, and fair competition. This abstract explores the evolving landscape of regulatory mechanisms for OTT platforms, examining key approaches such as self-regulation, content moderation frameworks, government oversight, and user empowerment initiatives. It critically analyses the strengths and weaknesses of each approach,considering the tensions between free speech, public safety, and economic interests. The abstract highlights the need for a multi-pronged approach that fosters responsible content practices, protects user rights, and ensures a level playing field for all stakeholders. Ultimately, it argues for a dynamic and adaptable regulatory framework that can keep pace with the ever- evolving digital terrain, ensuring a vibrant and responsible OTT ecosystem for the future. Also,we have proposed the establishment of a regulatory body for the oversight of Over-the-Top (OTT) communication services.

Keywords: OTT platforms, regulation, content moderation, self-regulation, user rights, competition,digital economy, free speech, public safety.