NETFLIX ‘ANNAPOORANI’ TAKE-DOWN: WHY OTT PLATFORMS BENT THE KNEE TO MORAL POLICE

THE CONTEXT: There has been a controversy surrounding the Tamil film Annapoorani and its removal from Netflix due to allegations of hurting religious sentiments. It highlights the growing influence of self-appointed guardians of culture and religion. They have shown the capability to intimidate even multinational corporations and filmmakers.

ISSUES:

• Threats to Creative Freedom: The Tamil film Annapoorani controversy exemplifies how self-appointed cultural watchdogs can intimidate filmmakers and production companies. Filmmakers are coerced into self-censorship, limiting creative expression and hindering the exploration of contentious or provocative themes. This inhibits the evolution of artistic endeavours and hampers the growth of alternative perspectives.
• Influence of Corporations and Market Pressures: Streaming platforms initially provided a platform for independent filmmakers to create content free from regional morality constraints. However, commercial considerations and the pursuit of wider audiences led to the dominance of established production houses, resulting in fewer opportunities for unique and groundbreaking work.
• Erosion of Cinematic Autonomy: The ability of streaming platforms to run uncensored versions of films was seen as a breakthrough in the field. Netflix, embroiled in multiple controversies, has ceased streaming uncut Indian films globally, highlighting the diminishing autonomy of streaming platforms in the face of societal pressure.
• Impact on Freedom of Expression: The unofficial censorship and self-censorship practices restrict the transmission of ideas and hinder the artistic pursuit of truth, resulting in a disservice to the cause of art and cinema. Fear becoming an ingrained habit erodes the willingness of artists to challenge norms and express unconventional ideas, stifling creativity and contributing to a homogeneous cultural landscape.
• Moral policing: There is an increasing influence of fringe elements in dictating censorship and moral standards in the entertainment industry. This can stifle creativity and hinder the exploration of unconventional or controversial themes in films and shows.

WAY FORWARD:

• Strengthening self-regulatory bodies: Encouraging streaming platforms to establish effective self-regulatory bodies that can assess and classify content based on age-appropriateness and sensitivity, taking input from various stakeholders. This can help strike a balance between creative freedom and cultural sensitivities.
• Transparent content guidelines: Streaming platforms should clearly communicate their guidelines and ensure content selection and moderation transparency. This can help creators understand the boundaries and minimize self-censorship.
• Encouraging diversity in content: Platforms can actively promote and invest in diverse narratives that showcase different perspectives, cultures, and beliefs. This can help foster a more inclusive range of content that appeals to a broader audience while respecting cultural sensitivities.
• Strengthening legal safeguards: Governments can consider reviewing and updating existing laws and regulations to balance freedom of expression and addressing concerns related to cultural and religious sensitivities. This can include providing clearer guidance on content classification and addressing censorship issues.
• Engaging in dialogue: Open and inclusive discussions between filmmakers, streaming platforms, and cultural/religious organizations can help foster mutual understanding and bridge the gap in perspectives. This can contribute to finding common ground and resolving disputes through constructive dialogue.
• Promoting media literacy: Educating the public about media literacy can help people critically analyse and interpret their content. This can encourage a more informed and nuanced approach to understanding and engaging with diverse narratives.
• Protecting artistic freedom: Ensuring filmmakers and artists can express their creativity without fear of reprisal or personal threats is crucial. This can be supported by maintaining an atmosphere of open dialogue, respect for diverse viewpoints, and protecting artists’ rights.
• International Collaboration: The Indian government can collaborate with global counterparts, sharing best practices and experiences dealing with content regulation and creative freedom. International partnerships can provide valuable insights and help shape a holistic approach to address the challenges faced by the streaming industry.
• Need for a balanced mechanism: The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) can act as a balancing mechanism to ensure the rights of artists and the public. This highlights the need for a fair and impartial content regulation system that respects artistic freedom while addressing cultural sensitivity and public interest concerns.

THE CONCLUSION:

It is important to balance artistic freedom, cultural sensitivities, and the values of a diverse society. By implementing these solutions, stakeholders can work towards fostering an environment where creative expression is respected while addressing concerns related to hurt sentiments and divisive narratives. Recognizing the importance of an open and inclusive marketplace of ideas is crucial for the sustained growth of a vibrant creative industry while ensuring societal harmony.

UPSC PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS

Q.1 The expansion of the Internet has instilled different cultural values, often conflicting with traditional values. Discuss (2020)

Q.2 How do pressure groups influence the Indian political process? Do you agree with this view that informal pressure groups have emerged as more powerful than formal pressure groups in recent years? (2017)

MAINS PRACTICE QUESTION:

Q.1 Examine the challenges faced by the content streaming industry in India about censorship and self-censorship. Discuss the impact of fringe elements and self-appointed moral guardians on creative expression and the resultant fear and hesitation among filmmakers.

SOURCE:

https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/netflix-annapoorani-take-down-moral-police-9113120/