No Further Police Cases, But Travel Restrictions Imposed
The Supreme Court has granted YouTube personality Ranveer Allahbadia temporary relief in the ongoing controversy over his comments on parents and sex during an episode of the stand-up show India’s Got Latent. The court ruled that no additional police cases could be filed against him regarding this matter.
Additionally, the court stated that Allahbadia, who has alleged receiving death threats against himself and his family, could approach the Maharashtra and Assam police for protection. It also assured that he would not be arrested by either Maharashtra or Assam police as long as he cooperates with the investigation. However, he must surrender his passport to the police in Thane and is prohibited from leaving the country without prior approval from the court.
Ban on Stand-Up and Roast Shows
In a significant restriction, the court barred Allahbadia and his associates from participating in any further stand-up comedy or ‘roast’ shows until further notice. Furthermore, the Supreme Court has sought the central government’s response on setting guidelines for ‘obscene’ content on social media, potentially paving the way for broader regulations on digital content.
Supreme Court Rebukes Allahbadia
During the hearing, a bench comprising Justice Surya Kant and Justice N Kotiswar Singh strongly criticized Allahbadia’s statements. His lawyer, Abhinav Chandrachud—son of former Chief Justice DY Chandrachud—expressed his personal disapproval of the remarks, stating, “I cannot defend on moral grounds,” but argued whether the comments constituted a criminal offense was a separate issue.
The court, however, appeared unconvinced initially. Justice Kant lashed out, declaring, “If this is not obscenity in this country, then what is!?” He further rebuked the YouTuber, stating, “There is something dirty in his mind that is spread by this programme.”
The judge also condemned the impact of Allahbadia’s comments, stating, “What embarrassment he has caused to his parents? The words you have chosen… parents will be ashamed, and sisters will be ashamed. The entire society will feel ashamed. The perversion you and your henchmen have exhibited!”
Protection from Arrest Amid Death Threats
Despite the severe criticism, the court acknowledged the seriousness of the death threats faced by Allahbadia. “We have a judicial system… we are bound by the rule of law. If there are threats, the law will take its course,” the bench stated, assuring that the State would provide necessary protection.
While the court provided temporary protection from arrest and halted further police complaints, Allahbadia remains under scrutiny, with his participation in future comedy shows restricted. The case has sparked a broader debate on freedom of speech and social media content regulations in India.
