PTA is shaking things up with a proposed regulatory framework for Over-The-Top (OTT) services. Popular platforms like YouTube, Netflix, WhatsApp, Facebook, and Twitter could face mandatory local registration for 15 years if the plan goes into effect.
A 14-page draft outlining the proposal is currently on the PTA website, open for public feedback until July 10th. PTA will consider the feedback before finalizing the regulations.
The framework categorizes OTT services into three groups: communication (e.g., WhatsApp), application (e.g., Facebook), and non-broadcasting media (e.g., YouTube). Companies would have one year to comply with the new authorization process if implemented. Unregistered services would be deemed illegal after that timeframe.
One potential sticking point is the draft’s reference to the Removal and Blocking of Unlawful Online Content Rules 2021, which has raised concerns about censorship.
