The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) is a statutory body constituted under Section 3 of the Commission for Protection of Child Rights (CPCR) Act, 2005. Its mandate includes protecting child rights and overseeing the implementation of relevant laws such as the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, Juvenile Justice Act, and Right to Free and Compulsory Education Act.
Complaint Against Ullu App
NCPCR received a complaint from individuals in the Bollywood industry, alleging that the Ullu App distributed obscene and objectionable material to its subscribers, including children. The app, available on both Play Store and iOS platforms, reportedly lacks KYC requirements for accessing its content.
Allegations and Concerns
Specific shows on the Ullu App are accused of targeting school children with explicit sexual scenes and plotlines. Screenshots provided as evidence depict sexual intercourse among school children. NCPCR notes the absence of KYC or age verification systems, violating the POCSO Act.
NCPCR’s Action
Taking cognizance of the complaint under Section 13(1)(g) of the CPCR Act, 2005, NCPCR recommends the government to investigate and take appropriate action against the Ullu App, Google Play Store, and iOS. Additionally, NCPCR requests information on regulations and policy certifications governing such apps.
Recommendations for Preventive Measures
NCPCR urges the implementation of stringent measures, including mandatory Know Your Customer (KYC) procedures for apps offering similar explicit content on Google Play Store and iOS, to protect children from accessing inappropriate material.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs):
- What is the mandate of the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR)?
- A) Ensuring fair access to education for children
- B) Protecting child rights and overseeing relevant laws
- C) Regulating the entertainment industry
- D) Promoting child labor
- Who lodged a complaint against the Ullu App?
- A) Government officials
- B) Bollywood actors
- C) Foreign investors
- D) Educational institutions
- What concern did NCPCR raise regarding the Ullu App’s content?
- A) Lack of variety in content
- B) Accessibility to minors
- C) Overcharging subscribers
- D) Poor video quality
- Under which act did NCPCR take cognizance of the complaint against the Ullu App?
- A) POCSO Act
- B) Juvenile Justice Act
- C) RTE Act
- D) CPCR Act
- What preventive measure does NCPCR recommend for apps offering explicit content?
- A) Age-restricted access
- B) Better video streaming quality
- C) Mandatory KYC procedures
- D) Higher subscription fees