In recent weeks, the digital content landscape in India has been abuzz following controversial remarks made by popular YouTuber Ranveer Allahbadia and social media influencer Apoorva Mukhija during an episode of the YouTube comedy show “India’s Got Latent.” The incident has sparked widespread public outrage, legal scrutiny, and discussions about the responsibilities of digital content creators.
The Controversial Episode
On February 10, 2025, Ranveer Allahbadia, widely known as BeerBiceps, appeared as a guest judge on “India’s Got Latent” alongside YouTuber Ashish Chanchlani, influencer Apoorva Mukhija, and comedian Jaspreet Singh. During this episode, Allahbadia posed a question to a contestant that many found offensive:
“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 led to immediate backlash on social media platforms, with users expressing their outrage over the perceived obscenity and insensitivity of the question. The controversy quickly escalated, resulting in multiple police complaints filed against Allahbadia for promoting obscenity and using offensive language. The complaints were submitted to the Mumbai Police Commissioner and the National Commission for Women (NCW), prompting official inquiries and the registration of a First Information Report (FIR) against Allahbadia, Apoorva Mukhija, and the show’s host, Samay Raina.
Political and Legal Repercussions
The incident caught the attention of political figures across India. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis condemned the remarks, stating that such content was unacceptable and warranted legal action. Similarly, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced that an FIR had been filed by the Guwahati police against those involved for promoting obscenity and engaging in inappropriate discussions. Wikipedia
The controversy also reached the Indian Parliament, where a parliamentary committee wrote to the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, seeking amendments to existing laws to regulate digital content, including podcasts and over-the-top (OTT) platforms. Lawmakers expressed concerns about the potential overreach by the government in regulating online content, sparking debates about freedom of speech and expression. Associated Press
Responses from Those Involved
In response to the backlash, Ranveer Allahbadia issued a public apology on February 10, acknowledging that the attempt at humor was not well-received and expressing regret for any offense caused. He stated that the controversial segments had been removed from the show. Samay Raina, the show’s host, took down all episodes of “India’s Got Latent” from his YouTube channel on February 12, expressing his intention to cooperate fully with authorities to ensure a fair inquiry.
Apoorva Mukhija reported receiving threats of violence on her social media accounts due to her presence in the episode. She was subsequently dropped from the list of guests for the International Indian Film Academy awards in Jaipur after the Karni Sena publicly declared its intention to physically assault her if she attended the event. Wikipedia
Judicial Intervention
India’s Supreme Court intervened in the matter, shielding Ranveer Allahbadia from arrest but criticizing his conduct as showing a “lack of responsibility” and being “condemnable.” The court ordered Allahbadia to surrender his passport and barred him from leaving the country.
Broader Implications for Digital Content Creators
This incident has ignited discussions about the responsibilities and boundaries of digital content creators in India. Observers express concerns that the controversy could lead to a chilling effect on India’s comedy scene and prompt more stringent regulations on digital media content. The government’s draft legislation proposed last year aims to overhaul and regulate broadcasting services, potentially applying to all content creators, including YouTubers. Critics argue that such measures could stifle free speech and significantly expand governmental powers over digital media.
Historical Context
This is not the first time Indian comedians have faced backlash for their content. In 2021, comedian Vir Das faced police complaints for his “I Come from Two Indias” show, which was critical of India over various issues. Similarly, comedians Munawar Faruqui … for allegedly making objectionable remarks about Hindu de … during a performance. These incidents reflect the challenging balance between comedy, freedom of expression, and societal norms in India. Associated Press
Conclusion
The controversy surrounding Ranveer Allahbadia and Apoorva Mukhija’s remarks on “India’s Got Latent” has sparked a national debate on the responsibilities of digital content creators and the extent of freedom of expression in India. As the NCW reviews the matter and legal proceedings continue, the incident underscores the need for a nuanced approach to regulating digital content—one that respects creative freedom while addressing societal sensitivities.
