New Guidelines for OTT Accessibility Launched for the Visually and Hearing Impaired

12.12.2025
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has taken a significant step towards inclusivity by releasing draft guidelines aimed at enhancing accessibility on Online Curated Content (OTT) platforms for individuals with hearing and visual impairments. Announced for public consultation on October 7, 2025, these guidelines underscore India’s commitment to upholding constitutional rights and international standards for persons with disabilities.

The new draft guidelines are crafted in line with Article 14 of the Constitution, fulfilling India’s obligations under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) and the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act (RPwD), 2016. Additionally, they align with the Code of Ethics stipulated in the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, introduced on February 25, 2021, under the IT Act, 2000.

The primary objective of these guidelines is to make audio-visual content on OTT platforms accessible to those with hearing and visual disabilities. To facilitate this, a two-phase implementation schedule has been outlined, ensuring a structured approach to accessibility.

Previous Efforts and Implementation Phases

Prior to this announcement, the Ministry had already laid down Accessibility Standards for Television Programmes aimed at the Hearing Impaired on September 11, 2019. Part 12 of these standards emphasizes a gradual approach to the rollout of access services, starting with public broadcasters such as Prasar Bharati, followed by private broadcasters and news outlets.

Government’s Engagement with Legislators

This initiative was brought to the attention of the Rajya Sabha by Dr. L. Murugan, the Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting. He provided insights in response to inquiries from members Smt. Sangeeta Yadav, Dr. Medha Vishram Kulkarni, and Shri Deepak Prakash, highlighting the government’s proactive measures in ensuring equal access to media content.

The draft guidelines represent a pivotal move towards fostering a more inclusive digital landscape in India, where everyone, regardless of their abilities, can enjoy the diverse range of content available on OTT platforms.