The Indian government has ordered messaging platform Telegram to remove pirated movies and OTT shows circulating across thousands of channels on its platform, launching a major crackdown on digital piracy.
The directive was issued by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting after complaints from major streaming platforms including JioCinema and Amazon Prime Video, which alleged widespread copyright violations affecting their content.
Government sources said the action targets more than 3,142 Telegram channels that were found distributing pirated films, web series and OTT shows without authorisation.
Over 3,000 Telegram Channels Under Scanner
Officials revealed that investigations identified 3,142 channels on Telegram that were sharing copyrighted content illegally.
These channels allegedly uploaded or distributed movies and OTT content shortly after release, causing financial losses to streaming platforms, filmmakers and producers.
Based on these findings, authorities initiated action under the Information Technology Act 2000, directing the platform to remove infringing material and restrict access to piracy networks operating through its channels.
New IT Rules Strengthen Government Action
The notice also comes in the backdrop of amendments made to the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules 2021.
The changes were introduced in October 2025 by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology and came into effect from November 15, 2025.
Under Rule 3(1)(d) of the amended rules, online intermediaries such as social media platforms and messaging services are required to remove unlawful content in a transparent, proportionate and accountable manner after receiving a directive from the government or a court.
The revised framework also introduces stronger safeguards, including senior-level responsibility within companies, clear identification of illegal material and periodic reviews of government orders related to content removal.
Officials say the rules aim to improve online safety and accountability while protecting copyright and intellectual property in India’s fast-growing digital entertainment ecosystem.
OTT Platforms Demand Strong Action
Streaming platforms have repeatedly flagged piracy as a serious threat to the industry.
Services such as JioCinema and Amazon Prime Video have complained that pirated copies of movies and web series often appear on messaging platforms and websites shortly after their release.
Industry stakeholders say such piracy significantly reduces revenues and undermines the rights of content creators and production houses.
The government’s notice is seen as a response to these concerns and signals a stronger push to curb illegal content distribution online.
Telegram Expected To Remove Illegal Content
Authorities expect Telegram to remove the pirated material from the identified channels in compliance with the notice.
Officials also indicated that failure to act could lead to further regulatory measures under existing cyber laws.
The move forms part of a broader effort by the government to curb digital piracy and ensure that online platforms operating in India comply with copyright laws and content regulations.
