Mumbai: In a sharply-worded statement, Shiv Sena legislator Manisha Kayande has urged the Mumbai Police Commissioner to bring an immediate halt to the popular reality show ‘Bigg Boss OTT 3,’ citing concerns over inappropriate content that she claims has overstepped all acceptable boundaries. The outspoken MLA made her appeal public on Monday, catalyzing a wave of controversy and debate over the boundaries of televised content on over-the-top (OTT) platforms.
Kayande specifically called attention to an episode that aired on July 18, which she described as displaying “very lewd and disgusting acts” in front of the camera. “Even kids watch this show. So, this show should be stopped immediately. Strict action should be taken against the producers of this show and the CEO of the broadcasting company by filing a case under cyber crime. A written request has been made to the Commissioner of Police to investigate the matter,” she emphasized. As both the state Secretary and Spokesperson of the Shiv Sena, her statements carry considerable weight and have drawn significant attention.
Reiterating her demands, Kayande expressed her disappointment with the content creators and the actors involved, accusing them of trampling social values and crossing all boundaries of family relations. According to her, the objectionable scenes reflect a wider decay in social values, induced by such televised content, which is easily accessible to children and younger audiences.
In furthering her fight against what she sees as indecent programming, Kayande announced plans to meet with the Union Information and Broadcasting Minister. Her objective is clear: to demand that OTT platforms be brought under the purview of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). By extending censorship regulations to online streaming content, she aims to establish a system of checks and balances that would prevent the airing of explicit material.
Kayande’s statements regarding the explicit episode and the wider criticism of ‘Bigg Boss OTT 3’ have been reiterated multiple times, drawing a clear picture of her adamancy on the issue. “Even kids watch this show. So this show should be stopped immediately. Strict action should be taken against the producers of this show and the CEO of the broadcasting company by filing a case under cyber crime. A written request has been made to the Commissioner of Police to investigate the matter,” she repeated.
. These iterations underscore her urgency and the severity with which she views the situation.
As she continues to push her agenda, Kayande also maintained her stance against the actors involved, holding them equally accountable for undermining social values. Her criticism did not just stop at the production team and broadcasters, but extended to the very performers who, according to her, crossed all social and familial boundaries.
In a detailed explanation of her future actions, Kayande revealed that she plans to convene a meeting with the Union Information and Broadcasting Minister. Her ultimate goal is to mandate that OTT content should be scrutinized and censored by the CBFC. She firmly believes that extending the purview of the censor board to online streaming platforms would be a significant step toward curbing the spread of inappropriate content, thereby protecting impressionable audiences.
“Even kids watch this show. So this show should be stopped immediately. Strict action should be taken against the producers of this show and the CEO of the broadcasting company by filing a case under cyber crime. A written request has been made to the Commissioner of Police to investigate the matter,” Kayande reiterated once more, unyielding in her demand for swift action.
As the controversy continues to unfold, public opinion appears divided. Many applaud Kayande’s diligence and concern for social values, while others argue about the need for artistic freedom and the autonomy of OTT platforms. Regardless of the differing perspectives, Kayande’s call to action has undoubtedly stirred a significant conversation about the limits of televised content and the responsibility of content creators and broadcasters.
Kayande’s legal and social crusade against ‘Bigg Boss OTT 3’ sets a precedent that could reshape the landscape of television and streaming services in India. By pushing for stringent censorship and regulatory measures, she is aiming for a major overhaul that could redefine the boundaries of acceptable content and influence, not only current programming but future productions as well.
Shiv Sena’s demand for the show’s immediate closure and the resultant investigation could have far-reaching implications for content producers and streaming services. As the dialogue continues, one thing is certain: Kayande’s crusade has pinpointed a crucial juncture in the ongoing debate about media regulation and societal standards.
