Police Take Action Against YouTubers Over Obscene Content on ‘India’s Got Latent’
Legal Complaints Filed Against Ranveer Allahbadia, Samay Raina, and Others
New Delhi/Guwahati/Mumbai, February 10, 2025 – Popular YouTubers Ranveer Allahbadia, Samay Raina, and several others are facing legal trouble after police complaints were filed against them for allegedly promoting obscene content on the YouTube show India’s Got Latent. The controversy erupted after explicit conversations aired on the show, sparking criticism from politicians, law enforcement, and the National Commission for Women (NCW).
The Assam Police were the first to act, with Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announcing on social media that an FIR had been filed against Allahbadia, Raina, and other influencers. Maharashtra Cyber Police later registered another case and summoned them for questioning.
Police Investigation and Legal Charges
On Monday, Guwahati Police booked five well-known YouTubers—Ranveer Allahbadia, Samay Raina, Ashish Chanchlani, Jaspreet Singh, and Apoorva Makhija—under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, the Information Technology Act, 2000, the Cinematograph Act, 1952, and the Indecent Representation of Women (Prohibition) Act, 1986. The complaint alleges that the influencers made “sexually explicit and vulgar remarks” on India’s Got Latent, a YouTube talent show hosted by Raina.
Following Assam’s move, Maharashtra Cyber Police also filed an FIR against 30 people linked to the show, including hosts, judges, and participants from all six episodes. Officials confirmed that summons would soon be issued to those involved.
Public and Political Reactions
The controversy escalated after a clip from India’s Got Latent went viral, showing Ranveer Allahbadia asking a contestant an offensive question about parents and sex. The video triggered public outrage, forcing Allahbadia to apologize.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis criticized the show, stating that freedom of speech should not be an excuse for crossing moral boundaries. Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar also slammed Allahbadia, questioning why Prime Minister Narendra Modi had previously honored him with a National Creators Award.
NCW Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar called for stricter regulations on online content, particularly on OTT platforms and social media. Meanwhile, Maharashtra Women’s Commission chief Rupali Chakankar demanded the show be taken down immediately and a detailed report on the incident.
Influencers Respond
Following the backlash, Ranveer Allahbadia issued a public apology, stating:
“I should not have said what I said on India’s Got Latent*. My comment wasn’t just inappropriate—it wasn’t even funny. Comedy is not my forte, and I had a lapse in judgment. Family is something I deeply respect, and I’ve learned my lesson.”*
Allahbadia also requested the show’s producers to remove offensive portions from the episode.
Impact on Digital Content and Influencer Culture
This incident has reignited discussions about online content regulation in India. While platforms like YouTube promote free expression, critics argue that some content crosses the line between humor and offensiveness.
With influencers having massive audiences, especially among youth, concerns over ethical content creation continue to rise. As India moves toward stricter digital regulations, this case could set a precedent for future legal actions against online content creators.
A Wake-Up Call for Content Creators
The legal action against India’s Got Latent influencers highlights the increasing scrutiny on digital platforms and their responsibility to uphold social norms. The FIRs against Allahbadia, Raina, and others may serve as a warning to other content creators about the consequences of posting inappropriate material.
As regulatory bodies push for tighter controls and political leaders voice their opinions, YouTubers and influencers may need to be more cautious in the future. While digital freedom is important, this case serves as a reminder that influence must come with responsibility.
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