The digital entertainment landscape in India is on the cusp of a significant transformation towards inclusivity. The government and Over-The-Top (OTT) platforms are reportedly in strong alignment on the crucial need for ‘Accessibility Standards’ to ensure that content is accessible to persons with disabilities (PwDs). Sources indicate that the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) is in the advanced stages of finalizing draft guidelines that will mandate accessibility features on these platforms.
While traditional media like broadcast television and cinema already operate under established accessibility guidelines, the burgeoning OTT sector has, until now, lacked a unified framework. Recognizing this gap, the government is actively working to create a comprehensive set of standards, drawing inspiration from global benchmarks such as the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG).
The move to bring OTT platforms under the accessibility umbrella is a continuation of the MIB’s proactive efforts towards creating a more inclusive media environment. This follows the implementation of “Accessibility Standards in the Public Exhibition of Feature Films in Cinema Theatres” in 2024, which focused on providing equal access for individuals with hearing and visual impairments through measures like Indian sign language interpretation, audio descriptions, and assistive devices.
While the specific details of the OTT accessibility draft are still under wraps and consultations are currently paused, the underlying intent is clear: to ensure that the vast and diverse content available on streaming platforms is navigable and enjoyable by all citizens, regardless of their abilities.
Avinash Mudaliar, CEO and Co-founder at OTTplay, emphasized the strategic importance of this move, stating that aligning with global benchmarks like WCAG sets the foundation for a more inclusive digital content ecosystem and enables platforms to reach wider audiences.
Germaine Pereira, Partner at Solomon & Co., highlighted the unique nature of OTT platforms, delivering on-demand content across various devices and interfaces. She stressed that the current lack of standardization makes it difficult for PwDs to fully enjoy or navigate content, underscoring the essential need for clear guidelines.
Even as the final draft guidelines are being worked on, the MIB has already issued an advisory on April 22, 2025, urging OTT platforms and their self-regulatory bodies to proactively enhance disabled-friendly features in accordance with existing Indian laws. The advisory emphasizes the need for platforms to make “reasonable efforts to improve the accessibility of online curated content” for PwDs. This advisory references a Delhi High Court order, further reinforcing the legal obligation for digital content providers to cater to viewers with disabilities.
The Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, already mandate that OTT platforms make “reasonable efforts” to improve accessibility. However, the upcoming specific guidelines are expected to provide more concrete and actionable standards for the industry to follow.
The collaborative spirit between the government and private stakeholders signals a strong commitment to ensuring digital inclusivity for all, promising a future where entertainment and information on OTT platforms are truly accessible to everyone.
Summary:
- The Indian government and OTT platforms are aligned on the need for ‘Accessibility Standards’ to make digital content accessible to persons with disabilities.
- The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) is in the final stages of drafting comprehensive accessibility guidelines for OTT platforms, 1 drawing from global standards like WCAG.
- An MIB advisory issued on April 22, 2025, already urges OTT platforms to enhance accessibility features as per existing laws.
- Industry leaders recognize the importance of these standards for creating a more inclusive digital environment and reaching wider audiences.
- The move aims to bridge the digital divide and ensure equal access to online curated content for all citizens.