The Union government has issued a formal notice to messaging platform Telegram directing the company to remove pirated content hosted on its platform.
The notice was issued by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting under provisions of the Information Technology Act 2000, asking the platform to take immediate action against channels distributing copyrighted material without authorization.
Over 3,100 Channels Flagged
According to officials, the government has directed Telegram to remove and disable access to more than 3,100 channels identified as hosting pirated content.
The notice states that these channels collectively contain over 1,100 instances of pirated material, including films and web series.
Authorities have instructed the platform to comply with the directive within three hours of receiving the notice, while ensuring that digital evidence related to the channels is preserved for possible investigation.
Complaints From Streaming Platforms
The action reportedly follows complaints filed by major streaming platforms, including JioCinema and Amazon Prime Video.
These platforms alleged that copyrighted content available on their services was being illegally shared through Telegram channels, allowing users to access movies and shows without authorization.
Such activities are considered a violation of copyright laws and can cause significant financial losses to content creators and streaming companies.
Government Focus on Digital Piracy
Officials said the directive is part of broader efforts by the government to curb online piracy and protect intellectual property rights in India’s rapidly growing digital entertainment sector.
Messaging platforms and social media networks have increasingly been used to distribute pirated copies of films and web series soon after release, often through private groups and large public channels.
By asking Telegram to disable access to the identified channels, authorities aim to limit the spread of pirated material and discourage similar activity on digital platforms.
Evidence Preservation Ordered
The ministry has also instructed the platform to ensure that the removal process does not destroy or tamper with evidence that could be required for legal proceedings.
Maintaining digital records of the channels and the content shared through them is considered essential if further investigation or enforcement action becomes necessary.
The notice highlights the government’s continuing push to hold digital intermediaries accountable for illegal content circulating through their platforms.
