Free speech no excuse for demeaning women on OTT, says NCW chief

The National Commission for Women has taken a firm stance against the portrayal of women in demeaning content on over-the-top platforms, asserting that artistic freedom has limits when it comes to matters of human dignity.

NCW Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar said that while freedom of expression remains fundamental, it cannot be weaponised to diminish women or violate their rights. "Anyone communicating through these platforms must always prioritise women's dignity and respect. When that fails to happen, it represents a fundamental wrong," Rahatkar stated in a recent interview.

The commission has flagged growing concerns about violent depictions, domestic abuse narratives, and substance abuse storylines on streaming services. To address these issues, the NCW recently convened a two-day consultation in Dehradun that drew representatives from over 20 states to examine how content creators can balance creative expression with social responsibility.

Rahatkar emphasised that streaming platforms, like traditional broadcasters, operate within a societal framework and must adhere to standards protecting vulnerable groups. The intervention reflects broader regulatory debates across South Asia regarding content standards for digital media services that increasingly shape public discourse and cultural narratives.