In a significant move to curb the circulation of explicit content online, the central government has banned multiple apps and websites accused of hosting obscene and adult material. Among those targeted in the crackdown are popular platforms such as ALTBalaji, ULLU, Big Shots App, Desiflix, Boomex, Navarasa Lite, and Gulab App.
This action is part of the government’s broader initiative to regulate digital content and enforce stricter controls over online platforms distributing sexually explicit or vulgar material. Authorities have intensified efforts in recent months to ensure that digital ecosystems comply with existing decency and content norms.
The crackdown follows the Supreme Court’s intervention in April 2025, when it issued notices to the Centre and major streaming and social media platforms in response to a Public Interest Litigation (PIL). The PIL had sought action against the unregulated streaming of sexually explicit content. Notices were served to the government as well as platforms including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, ULLU, ALTBalaji, X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, urging a review of content regulation practices across OTT and social media domains.
