Govt Issues Notice to Telegram, Demands Crackdown on Pirated Content Within 15 Days

The Centre has issued a formal notice to Telegram , directing the platform to take immediate action against the widespread circulation of pirated films, OTT content and other audio visual material being shared through its channels. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has asked the messaging service to submit an Action Taken Report within 15 days , officials said on Saturday.

Government sources said the move reflects a clear shift towards platform accountability , moving beyond selective or case by case removals of infringing content. Authorities have reportedly told Telegram that relying only on a reactive, channel by channel takedown approach may not meet the standards of due diligence required under the IT Act, 2000 and IT Rules, 2021 .

The notice also underlined that copyright violations are not just civil issues but can also attract criminal liability under the Copyright Act, 1957 and the Cinematograph Act, 1952 . Officials stressed that intermediaries are expected to actively ensure stronger compliance mechanisms rather than wait for individual complaints.

The action comes amid broader regulatory scrutiny of major tech platforms. Recently, the government also issued notices to Meta Platforms over concerns linked to features on WhatsApp and content moderation on Instagram. Separately, Signal has also been asked to respond regarding its username feature.

Officials said the government is aiming to protect India’s creator economy, film industry, broadcasters, OTT platforms and content producers , warning that continued availability of pirated content or incomplete compliance could invite further legal and regulatory action.