Bhubaneswar: The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has taken action under the Information Technology Act, 2000 to block several Telegram channels accused of illegally streaming copyrighted films and web series.
The move follows complaints from major streaming platforms about the unauthorized sharing of popular titles such as the Bigg Boss reality show, the The Family Man web series, and the blockbuster film Kantara. Authorities said these public Telegram channels, some with millions of subscribers, had become hubs for instant leaks of newly released content.
Industry stakeholders have long argued that piracy through messaging platforms significantly affects revenues by allowing viewers to access premium content without paying subscription fees.
The crackdown has received broad support from content creators and streaming platforms, who say stronger enforcement is essential to protect intellectual property and ensure fair competition.
With India’s streaming market expanding rapidly—now estimated to have over 500 million users—content owners hope stricter action against piracy will help safeguard investments in original productions and strengthen the country’s digital entertainment ecosystem.
-OdishaAge
