The Ullu app is once again in controversy, this time for its adult reality show House Arrest, which is being called out by politicians, women’s commissions, and the public for allegedly promoting obscenity in the name of entertainment.
The show, which started streaming from April 20, has come under heavy criticism after certain clips showing vulgar conversations and tasks went viral on social media. A particular segment where host Ejaz Khan asks female contestants about Kamasutra sex positions has triggered massive outrage.
Now, both the Central and State Women’s Commissions have stepped in, calling for strict action against the makers and demanding a ban on the show.
What is the ‘House Arrest’ Show All About?
House Arrest is a reality show currently streaming on Ullu, an OTT platform known for its adult content. The format of the show involves locking up a group of men and women inside a house, where they are cut off from the outside world and made to perform various tasks and challenges, some of which, as seen in viral videos, include sexually suggestive themes.
The show is being hosted by actor Ejaz Khan, known for his stint in Bigg Boss 7. The contestants include bold faces like Abha Paul, Muskan Aggarwal, Ritu Roy, Simran Kaur, Sarika Salunkhe, and Jinal Vashisht, most of whom have previously worked in adult web series or modelling.
Objectionable Clip Creates Uproar
Trouble began when short video clips of the show started circulating online, particularly one in which host Ejaz Khan is seen openly asking contestants to name sex positions from the ancient text Kamasutra. In the same segment, the women are shown undressing and participating in challenges that many felt were vulgar and humiliating.
These clips led to widespread anger on social media. Critics argue that such content degrades women and spreads pornography in the guise of reality entertainment. The backlash was so intense that even politicians jumped into the discussion.
Politicians and Women’s Panels Demand Ban
Rajya Sabha MP Priyanka Chaturvedi from Shiv Sena (UBT) took to social media to raise serious concerns over the content of House Arrest. She directly questioned the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (I&B Ministry), asking why apps like Ullu and ALT Balaji were spared during the recent crackdown on 18 OTT platforms for showing obscene content.
In her post on X (formerly Twitter), Priyanka said,
“18 OTT apps were banned by the government for streaming pornographic material. Surprisingly, two of the most notorious platforms, Ullu and ALT Balaji, were not touched. Why this selective action?”
She also attached the official list of banned apps and asked the government to explain why Ullu and ALT Balaji were excluded, despite their history of adult content.
Following her remarks, the Maharashtra State Women’s Commission and the National Commission for Women (NCW) have taken action. NCW has summoned Ullu’s CEO Vibhu Aggarwal and show host Ejaz Khan. They have been asked to appear before the commission on 9 May 2025 to respond to charges of streaming content that violates women’s dignity.
National Commission for Women Steps In
The NCW didn’t mince words in its official communication. It accused the show of spreading “obscene and pornographic material” under the excuse of adult entertainment. According to the NCW, such shows violate the rights of women participants and set a dangerous example for viewers.
The commission’s letter mentioned that streaming platforms are not above the law and will be held accountable if they cross limits. NCW chairperson Rekha Sharma stated that the commission would recommend further legal action if the explanations provided on May 9 are not satisfactory.
Bigger Question: Why Are Some OTT Platforms Allowed to Escape Action?
The entire controversy has also reignited the debate around content regulation on OTT platforms in India. While platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime are generally careful with their censorship and classification, several local apps like Ullu, NueFliks, and ALT Balaji have often crossed lines, say critics.
In March 2024, the I&B Ministry banned 18 OTT apps for pushing obscene content. But Ullu and ALT Balaji were not part of that list. This has led to accusations of selective enforcement.
Priyanka Chaturvedi questioned the government’s approach, suggesting that big platforms with more reach are being protected despite clearly pushing vulgar content.
Growing Demand for OTT Regulation
The House Arrest issue has also raised concerns among citizens and advocacy groups about the need for a formal OTT content monitoring body in India. Currently, OTT platforms follow a self-regulation model, which critics say is not working.
Shows like House Arrest are reportedly accessible even without strong age-verification processes. Viewers argue that such content can easily reach underage audiences, creating further complications.
In response, there are now growing calls for mandatory certification of OTT shows, similar to how films are certified by the CBFC (Central Board of Film Certification). Social media users have also demanded that Google Play Store and Apple App Store take down apps like Ullu from their platforms to stop the spread of adult content.
What’s Next for Ullu and House Arrest?
With public pressure mounting, political voices growing stronger, and summons issued by top women’s bodies, Ullu may be forced to pause or even pull down House Arrest entirely.
All eyes are now on May 9, when Ullu CEO Vibhu Aggarwal and Ejaz Khan will appear before the NCW. Their response and the Commission’s decision will set the tone for how OTT platforms in India are held accountable for adult content going forward.
Source: ANI, PTI, National Commission for Women, Priyanka Chaturvedi Social Media Post
