India’s Got Latent: National Commission for Women Summons Ranveer Allahbadia and Samay Raina; Maharashtra Cyber Cell Registers Case Against 40 Individuals
In a significant development, the National Commission for Women (NCW) has issued summons to YouTuber Ranveer Allahbadia and comedian Samay Raina, among others, following a controversy surrounding the YouTube show ‘India’s Got Latent’. Concurrently, the Maharashtra Cyber Cell has registered a case against 30 to 40 individuals associated with the show.
Background of the Controversy
The controversy erupted after Ranveer Allahbadia, popularly known as ‘BeerBiceps’, made a remark on ‘India’s Got Latent’ that was widely perceived as offensive. During an episode, Allahbadia posed a question to a contestant: “Would you rather watch your parents have sex for the rest of your life, or would you join in once and stop it forever?” This comment sparked widespread public outrage and led to multiple complaints being filed against him and other participants of the show.
NCW’s Response and Summons
Taking cognizance of the incident, the NCW expressed serious concern over the derogatory remarks made by the content creators. The Commission has summoned Ranveer Allahbadia, Samay Raina, Apoorva Makhija, Ashish Chanchlani, Jaspreet Singh, and the show’s producers, Tushar Poojari and Saurabh Bothra. The hearing is scheduled for February 17, 2025, at the NCW office in New Delhi. The NCW’s statement emphasized that such comments violate the dignity and respect owed to every individual, particularly in a society that upholds equality and mutual respect.
Maharashtra Cyber Cell’s Legal Action
Parallelly, the Maharashtra Cyber Cell has registered a First Information Report (FIR) against ‘India’s Got Latent’ under relevant sections of the Information Technology (IT) Act. The Cyber Cell’s investigation revealed that participants and others associated with the show, including guests, were seen using vulgar and obscene language. As a result, the Cyber Cell is seeking the removal of all 18 episodes of the comedy show and has initiated the process of sending summonses to about 30 to 40 individuals who have participated in the show from its inception.
Public Backlash and Apology
The incident has led to significant public backlash, with many expressing their disapproval of the content aired on the show. In response to the criticism, Ranveer Allahbadia issued a public apology, acknowledging that his comment was inappropriate and not humorous. He stated, “My comment was not appropriate; it wasn’t even funny. Comedy is not my forte. I am just here to say sorry.” He also mentioned that he had requested the show’s creators to remove the controversial segment.
Industry Reactions and Further Developments
The controversy has also drawn reactions from various quarters of the entertainment industry. Content creators Ashish Chanchlani, Jaspreet Singh, and Apoorva Makhija, who featured in one of the episodes, have been named in the complaints. Ashish Chanchlani’s lawyer has stated that all necessary legal procedures are being followed and that further updates will be provided in due course.
The situation continues to evolve, with the NCW’s hearing scheduled for February 17 and the Maharashtra Cyber Cell’s ongoing investigation. The outcome of these proceedings will likely have significant implications for content creators and the regulation of online content in India.
