Govt blocks 7,393 piracy URLs, 4,996 Telegram channels in crackdown

Massive takedown across platforms

The Indian government has ordered the removal of 7,393 piracy-related URLs, with a significant chunk—4,996—being Telegram channels. The action, carried out under the Information Technology Act and the recently tightened Cinematograph (Amendment) Act, marks one of the largest single crackdowns on digital piracy in the country.

Officials said the takedown covers a range of platforms, though the bulk of the URLs were on the messaging app Telegram, which has become a favoured conduit for leaking films within hours of their theatrical release.

Industry hails the move

The Malayalam film industry, which has been particularly vocal about the threat posed by piracy networks, has welcomed the government's action. Several industry bodies had earlier petitioned the Centre to intervene, pointing to mounting losses from unauthorised dissemination of films.

While exact figures on revenue loss were not disclosed, the industry has consistently flagged that leaks often occur within hours of a film's premiere, hitting smaller-budget productions the hardest.

Stronger legal framework in place

In a recent reply to the Lok Sabha, the Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting said the government has strengthened the legal framework to curb unauthorised sharing of films. The Cinematograph (Amendment) Act, along with updated IT rules, now provides clearer provisions for blocking pirated content and prosecuting repeat offenders.

This legal backing has enabled authorities to act faster and more decisively, officials said, without specifying the exact timeline for the latest round of blocks.

Telegram's role under scrutiny

The sheer volume of Telegram channels among the blocked URLs underscores the platform's growing role in piracy. Unlike public websites, Telegram channels can be harder to track and shut down, often resurfacing under new names after being blocked.

Authorities have not yet announced whether they are in direct communication with Telegram or its parent company regarding these takedowns.

What lies ahead

The government is expected to continue its surveillance of piracy networks, with industry representatives calling for more frequent and coordinated actions. The focus now shifts to whether platforms like Telegram will cooperate proactively to prevent the emergence of new piracy channels.

For the film industry, the hope is that sustained enforcement will deter potential leakers and protect the box office earnings that remain critical to the sector's health.