Yes, certain regulations and restrictions apply specifically to domain name registration in India. Here are the key points:
1. Restricted Keywords and Names:
- Offensive or Sensitive Terms: Domains containing offensive language, discriminatory terms, or content that could incite violence or hatred are prohibited.
- Trademarked Names: Domains that infringe on registered trademarks or closely resemble them are not allowed. This includes names of well-known brands, organizations, or personalities.
- Government-Related Terms: Domains that imply a connection to the Indian government or official bodies without authorization are restricted. This includes names like “indiagov” or “presidentofindia”.
- Geographical Indications (GIs): Domains incorporating registered GIs, which protect specific products or goods originating from a particular region, are not permitted without authorization.
2. Registration Requirements:
- For .IN and .CO.IN domains:
- Individuals and organizations residing in India or outside India can register.
- An Indian address is not required for registration.
- Verification of identity and address is not mandated , however advised to verify the identity. Registry can demand the identity verification case to case
3. Dispute Resolution:
- Indian Domain Name Dispute Resolution Policy (INDRP): A mechanism for resolving disputes over .IN and .CO.IN domains, similar to the global Uniform Domain-Name Dispute-Resolution Policy (UDRP).
- Handles cases of trademark infringement, cybersquatting, and other domain-related disputes.
4. Compliance with Indian Laws:
- Domain content must adhere to Indian laws, including those governing defamation, obscenity, and hate speech.
- Registrants are responsible for ensuring their domains don’t violate any legal provisions.
5. Additional Considerations:
- Domain names cannot be excessively long or contain certain special characters.
- Certain technical requirements might apply, such as valid nameservers.
- Registrars might have their own specific terms and conditions.
It’s crucial to familiarize yourself with these regulations and consult a legal expert if you have any concerns to ensure a smooth and compliant domain registration process in India.