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Priyank Kanoongo, Chairperson National Commission for Protection of Child Rights, writes to Commissioner of Police, Mumbai, Shri Param Bir Singh against certain inappropriate scenes involving minors in a series called “Bombay Begums” streaming on Netflix. Commission is of the broad view that the acts showcased in the said series are in contravention to the provisions of Juvenile Justice Act, 2015, POCSO Act, 2012 and certain section of the Penal Code, 1860.

The Commission’s letter dated 16.03.2021 requests to furnish an ATR in this regard, within a period of 7 days, failing which it will be constrained to initiate proceedings under Section 14 of the Commission for Protection of Child Rights (CPCR) Act, 2005.

“The Commission is in receipt of a complaint from two Twitter handles in regard to series Bombay Begums streaming on Netflix, wherein the children were found to be indulged in snorting drugs and taking indecent pictures and selfies in the classroom. In this regard, the Commission was of the view that representing, portraying and glorifying children in India in such manner on any media platform/internet/OTTs, etc. cannot be tolerated and it should not be allowed. As the series with this type of content would not only pollute the young minds of the children but also result into abuse and exploitation of children at the hands of the perpetrators/offenders”, the letter says.

Further, by invoking statutory power under Section 13(1)(j) CPCR Act, the Commission has already directed Netflix to immediately stop streaming of the said series and provide a detailed report within 24 hours. Meeting with respect to the same was also convened at NCPCR Office dated 16.03.2021; “Netflix was also directed to take extra precaution while streaming any content in respect to the children or for the children and shall also refrain themselves from getting into such things”

Highlighting another instance of inappropriate representation and seeking immediate action, the letter notes, “In one of the scene (in Episode 3 at 16.25 onwards) a minor girl was smoking cigarette which is in violation of Section 77 of the Juvenile Justice Act, 2015. Therefore, you are requested to investigate/inquire and take deemed lawful necessary action in this matter. You are further requested to enquire to ensure that no child labour laws/ any other relevant laws or guidelines to regulate participation of children in TV etc. is violated at the time of shooting of this series.”