Centre orders Telegram to curb film piracy, seeks action taken report within 15 days

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (I&B) has directed messaging platform Telegram to take immediate steps against the illegal sharing of pirated films, web series and OTT content on its platform. The government has asked Telegram to submit a detailed Action Taken Report (ATR) within 15 days, outlining the measures taken to prevent copyright violations and curb digital piracy.

According to official sources, the move comes after complaints from film producers, broadcasters and OTT platforms over the widespread circulation of copyrighted content through Telegram channels. The Centre said digital piracy causes significant financial losses to India's entertainment industry and undermines the country's growing creator economy.

The latest directive marks a shift towards holding online platforms accountable for preventing the distribution of illegal content rather than relying solely on individual takedown requests.

The government has warned that stricter action could follow if adequate steps are not taken. The crackdown is part of broader efforts to strengthen enforcement of copyright laws, protect intellectual property rights and ensure a safer digital ecosystem for content creators, filmmakers and streaming platforms.