The Supreme Court, in a historical verdict, has provided relief to YouTube creator Ranveer Allahbadia, who has been in hot water for some strongly critical comments made during stand-up show “India’s Got Latent.” The court said no police cases can further be filed against him under this.
Allahbadia, who has alleged that he received death threats directed against him and his family members, was advised to seek shelter under the Maharashtra and Assam police if threatened. The court assured him that he would not be arrested by police from either state, provided that he abides by the investigations being pursued.
But he must produce his passport along with the police in Thane, Maharashtra, and cannot go abroad without prior permission of the court. Additionally, Allahbadia and his friends are barred from conducting any stand-up comedy or roast shows until further notice.
The court also directed the central government to reply on guidelines for identifying ‘obscene’ content on social media sites.
During the course of the hearing, Allahbadia’s lawyer, Abhinav Chandrachud, expressed his own revulsion at the remarks made by his client but inquired whether they constituted a criminal offense. Justice Kant, visibly irritated, noted that such remarks could well be obscene.
Despite the court’s harsh reprimand, it did acknowledge the seriousness of the threats made to Allahbadia and reaffirmed its commitment to defend the rule of law. The YouTuber is also facing multiple police complaints and a notice from the National Commission of Women.
In a recent video message, Allahbadia apologized publicly, acknowledging his words were out of line and apologizing for any insensitivity towards parents. He underscored the need for accountability in his future actions.
