In recent weeks, the digital content landscape in India has been embroiled in controversy following remarks made by prominent YouTuber and podcaster Ranveer Allahbadia on the YouTube show ‘India’s Got Latent.’ The incident has led to legal actions, public outcry, and discussions about the responsibilities of digital influencers.
The Controversial Episode
On February 10, 2025, during a bonus episode of ‘India’s Got Latent,’ Allahbadia posed a provocative question to a contestant:
“Would you rather watch your parents have sex every day for the rest of your life or join in once to make it stop forever?”
This remark quickly went viral, sparking widespread criticism across social media platforms. Many deemed the question inappropriate and offensive, leading to a significant backlash against Allahbadia and the show’s creators.
Legal Repercussions
The controversy escalated as multiple First Information Reports (FIRs) were filed against Allahbadia and others involved in the show. The Guwahati Police registered an FIR under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) against Samay Raina (the show’s host) and the guest judges, including Allahbadia, Ashish Chanchlani, Jaspreet Singh, and Apoorva Makhija. The complaint was filed by Alok Boruah, a resident of Guwahati, alleging the promotion of obscenity and inappropriate discussions on a publicly accessible platform.
In response to the FIR, the Assam Police issued summonses to the individuals named, requiring their presence for questioning. A team from the cyber police department traveled to Mumbai to serve these summonses to Allahbadia and Chanchlani.
Non-Appearance and Lack of Communication
Despite the summons, reports indicate that Allahbadia did not appear before the Assam Police on the scheduled date. Furthermore, he failed to inform the authorities about his inability to attend or provide any reasons for his non-appearance. This lack of communication has raised concerns among law enforcement officials regarding his cooperation with the ongoing investigation.
Public and Political Reactions
The incident has not only attracted public outrage but has also caught the attention of political figures. Discussions have emerged about the need for stricter regulations governing content on digital platforms. A parliamentary committee has approached the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, advocating for laws to regulate digital content, including podcasts and over-the-top (OTT) platforms, in light of this controversy.
Responses from Involved Parties
In the wake of the backlash, Allahbadia issued a public apology, acknowledging that his attempt at humor was misguided. He stated that the controversial segments had been removed from the show. Samay Raina, the host of ‘India’s Got Latent,’ took down all episodes of the show from his YouTube channel, expressing his intent to cooperate fully with the authorities to ensure a fair inquiry.
Implications for Digital Content Creators
This incident has ignited a broader debate about the responsibilities of digital content creators and the boundaries of humor and free speech. While the digital space has provided a platform for diverse voices and creative expression, it also necessitates a discussion on ethical standards and the potential impact of content on audiences.
Ranveer Allahbadia’s absence from the Assam Police summons without prior notification underscores the challenges authorities face in holding digital influencers accountable. As the investigation continues, it serves as a pivotal moment for both content creators and regulators to reflect on the evolving dynamics of digital media and the importance of balancing creative freedom with societal norms and legal frameworks.
