Ranveer Allahbadia, who was awarded the ‘Disruptor of the Year’ title in 2024 from PM Modi, has found himself at the centre of a massive controversy. Over the past 24 hours, his remarks on Samay Raina’s popular show ‘India’s Got Latent’ have sparked outrage across social media, drawing sharp criticism from the public and even politicians like Devendra Fadnavis.
YouTube has now taken decisive action by removing the controversial video following a notice from the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC). The platform cited violations of its community guidelines regarding offensive content. The move came after growing backlash, with multiple complaints being filed against Allahbadia for promoting obscenity.
YouTube’s response and content moderation
As the controversy escalated, calls for action against the video intensified. According to PTI, the NHRC on Monday urged YouTube to take “urgent action” against Ranveer Allahbadia and remove an episode of India’s Got Latent over alleged obscene remarks. NHRC member Priyank Kanoongo, in a letter to YouTube’s head of public policy, stated that the show promoted negativity, religious intolerance, and inappropriate content, violating laws like the BNS, POCSO Act, and IT Act.
YouTube, adhering to its strict policies on explicit and offensive content, took the video down after receiving official complaints. The platform stated that it does not allow content that promotes obscenity, harassment, or inappropriate discussions that violate its guidelines.
Allahbadia later issued an apology via his social media channels, acknowledging his mistake. “My comment wasn’t just inappropriate, it wasn’t even funny. Comedy is not my forte. I am just here to say sorry,” the 31-year-old YouTuber and podcaster said.
The viral controversy and public backlash
The uproar began when Allahbadia, serving as a judge on ‘India’s Got Latent’ alongside host Samay Raina and influencers Ashish Chanchlani and Apoorva Mukhija, posed a highly inappropriate question to a contestant. His remarks were immediately met with shock and disapproval, even from those present on the show.
The now-deleted video saw Allahbadia asking, “Would you rather watch your parents have *** every day for the rest of your life or join in once and stop it forever?” The crude nature of the comment ignited widespread criticism, with many calling it distasteful and unacceptable for public discourse. Social media erupted in outrage, branding the question as vulgar and inappropriate for an entertainment platform.
Legal Implications and Political Reactions
The backlash extended beyond social media, prompting legal and political repercussions. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma confirmed that an FIR had been filed against Allahbadia for promoting obscenity. Several police complaints were registered, demanding strict action against the influencer.