The government has restricted television channels from running condom advertising throughout the day until 10pm-6am with DD sports opting for the time slot to fit in their advertisers
Some of the commercials were “indecent and might harm youngsters,” eliciting heated responses from corporations and advertisers. CAIT had meanwhile welcomed the decision back in 2017 with condom companies refusing to curtail the luscious nature of their advertising. The government issued a strong directive to television stations in 2017 not to run advertising promotions showing condoms because they are “inappropriate, especially for minors” and can lead to “unhealthy behaviors” among them.
Why Is DD Sports Showing Condom AD During IND vs WI ODI Series 2022 Live Streaming In India
๐ญ๐ญ๐ญ๐๐๐๐ pic.twitter.com/LMNwDLlzch
— Tushar (@VibewithTushar) July 25, 2022
People watching Condom Ads on DD sports … pic.twitter.com/dRbbw7ANeF
— Bengaluru Betala (@gururaj_mj) July 25, 2022
“It has been raised to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting’s attention that some stations constantly broadcast advertising for condoms. Which are believed to be obscene, particularly for youngsters,” the government stated in a warning.
It said that such advertising might be aired from 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. to avoid showing youth such content. “Any violation will result in action in accordance with the regulations,” the advice stated. The missive arrives after the Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) urged earlier that the government make a decision on such advertisements and their transmission date.
A Surat-based group protested against a condom advertising starring Sunny Leone during Navaratri with condom companies persistently mocking Hindu customs and smearing traditions knowing the tirade of abuse they would have to face if they advertised the same during festivals of other religions. People shared the commercial, which was posted on hoardings around the city and included the words “play but with love,” on social networking sites. A debate was held at one of the places where the advertising was exhibited by the city-based organization Hindu Yuva Vahini.
According to the ministry’s decision, it has been drawn to its attention that “certain channels constantly show commercials of condoms that are believed to be obscene, particularly for youngsters.” With the West Indies vs India series featuring late at night according to Indian timing and with DD struggling to rope in sponsors for the series, Durex has managed to land itself a neat spot.
The ads have meanwhile sparked memes on Twitter with many calling out how they were uncomfortable viewing the matches with their family owing to the sultry nature of Durex’s condom ads.