The Indian government has issued a notice to Telegram over the alleged circulation of pirated films and OTT content. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting asked the messaging platform to immediately remove channels and groups sharing copyrighted material without authorization. Officials expressed concern over the growing misuse of digital platforms for distributing illegal copies of movies and web series. The ministry instructed Telegram to introduce stronger safeguards against copyright violations and improve its monitoring mechanisms. Authorities have also directed the company to submit a detailed Action Taken Report within 15 days. The move reflects the government’s continued efforts to strengthen digital copyright enforcement and protect India’s entertainment industry from online piracy.
Also read: Over ₹9,300 Crore Unclaimed in 31 Lakh EPF Accounts Across India
Government Orders Telegram to Remove Pirated Content
According to the ministry, unauthorized distribution of copyrighted content causes significant financial losses to filmmakers, producers, broadcasters, OTT platforms, and other rights holders. Officials believe online piracy weakens the country’s creator economy and discourages investment in original entertainment content. Pirated copies of newly released films and web series frequently appear on messaging platforms shortly after their official release. Industry organizations have repeatedly urged authorities to strengthen legal enforcement against digital piracy. The government now expects Telegram to adopt effective measures that prevent repeated copyright violations while ensuring compliance with existing laws. The ministry emphasized that protecting intellectual property remains essential for sustaining growth across India’s media and entertainment sectors.
The notice requires Telegram to strengthen its content moderation systems and prevent misuse of its platform. Officials instructed the company to identify and remove channels repeatedly involved in sharing illegal entertainment content. The government also requested a detailed explanation of the corrective measures introduced following the notice. Telegram must provide its compliance report within the stipulated fifteen-day deadline. Authorities will review the company’s response before deciding any further regulatory action. The latest directive demonstrates the government’s intention to hold digital platforms accountable for preventing copyright infringement and protecting legitimate content creators from financial harm.
Centre Tightens Scrutiny on Digital Platforms
Earlier this week, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology also sought explanations from Telegram and Signal regarding their username features. Officials raised concerns that anonymous usernames could increase online fraud, phishing attempts, impersonation, and other cybercrimes. Similar concerns prompted the government to issue a notice to Meta over its newly introduced username feature. Authorities believe stronger safeguards are necessary to prevent misuse by malicious users targeting unsuspecting individuals. Government officials continue engaging with technology companies to improve user safety while ensuring digital platforms operate responsibly. These actions form part of broader efforts to strengthen cybersecurity and online accountability.
Last month, the Centre temporarily restricted Telegram services ahead of the NEET re-examination conducted on June 21. The temporary ban remained in effect between June 16 and June 22 as a precautionary measure. Telegram challenged the government’s decision before the Delhi High Court, seeking withdrawal of the restriction. However, the court upheld the government’s decision and dismissed the company’s challenge. The latest notice adds to Telegram’s regulatory challenges in India as authorities increase scrutiny of digital platforms. Officials maintain that stronger enforcement remains necessary to protect users, intellectual property, and the country’s expanding digital ecosystem.
Also read: Over ₹9,300 Crore Unclaimed in 31 Lakh EPF Accounts Across India