The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken serious note of a complaint against the Netflix web series, ‘Ba***ds of Bollywood‘, for allegedly depicting a popular actor using a banned e-cigarette without any warning or disclaimer. The NHRC has issued notices to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and the Mumbai police commissioner, seeking an action taken report on the matter.
The complaint alleges that a scene in the series, which premiered on the streaming platform on September 18, shows a well-known actor using a banned electronic cigarette. The complainant, a representative from the Legal Rights Observatory, further argued that this content, streamed openly to a global audience, could negatively influence young viewers by promoting the use of substances banned under the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act (PECA), 2019.
The NHRC has emphasized that if the allegations are true, they reflect a serious violation of the law. The PECA, 2019, strictly prohibits the production, manufacture, import, export, transport, sale, distribution, storage, and advertisement of e-cigarettes in India. The commission has urged the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to take immediate steps to prevent such content from influencing the youth.
Furthermore, the NHRC has instructed the Mumbai Police Commissioner to investigate the roles of the actors, producers, and the streaming platform involved in the episode. It has also asked for an FIR to be registered if necessary, and a report on the action taken within a two-week timeframe.
This move highlights the growing scrutiny on OTT content and its adherence to national laws and public health regulations. As the digital media landscape continues to expand, this case could set a precedent for how streaming platforms are held accountable for content that may contradict Indian law.
Key Highlights:
- NHRC Issues Notice: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has issued notices to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and the Mumbai police chief concerning a scene in a Netflix series.
- Complaint of Banned Substance Use: A complaint alleges that the web series ‘Ba***ds of Bollywood’ showed a popular actor using a banned e-cigarette without any warning or disclaimer, potentially influencing young viewers.
- Violation of Law: The complaint highlights a potential violation of the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act (PECA), 2019, which bans the use, sale, and advertisement of such devices.
- Investigation Underway: The NHRC has requested an action taken report from the concerned authorities, including a potential FIR against those involved, underscoring the legal seriousness of the complaint.