Mumbai, February 10: A recent episode of ‘India’s Got Latent’, which aired on YouTube, has sparked a widespread backlash following controversial remarks made by YouTuber Ranveer Allahbadia and other participants. The episode, which included a series of offensive comments about women, has led to legal scrutiny and a formal complaint against the involved parties.
Annu Kapoor Speaks Out
Veteran actor Annu Kapoor has weighed in on the issue, calling for stricter consequences for individuals who misuse their freedom of speech. In a statement, Kapoor emphasized the need for a balance between freedom of expression and social responsibility.
“The Constitution gives everyone the right to freedom of expression, but this right should only be granted to those who fulfill their duties towards society,” Kapoor stated. He expressed concern over how the right to free speech has been misused in recent years, leading to a moral decline in society.
Kapoor further stated that society must hold individuals accountable for making offensive remarks. “Those who speak obscenities should be punished by society,” he added, urging swift legal action in cases involving such remarks.
Controversial Remarks and Legal Scrutiny
The comments made during the episode, which were intended to be humorous, focused on women’s private parts and were widely perceived as derogatory. The remarks were condemned by various social and political figures for their offensive nature. A formal complaint was filed with both the Mumbai Commissioner and the Maharashtra Women’s Commission.
The complainant alleges that the accused, including Ranveer Allahbadia, influencer Apoorva Makhija, comedian Samay Raina, and the organizers of the show, used obscene language to humiliate and demean women. The complainant believes that the remarks were made to increase the show’s popularity and financial profits, taking advantage of the global audience on YouTube.
Potential Impact on Young Audiences
The complainant also expressed concern over the impact of such content on young audiences, especially minors, who may have been exposed to these harmful comments without sufficient safeguards.
Public and Political Reaction
Prominent figures have condemned the remarks and called for immediate action. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis responded to the incident, emphasizing that while freedom of speech is a fundamental right, it must not infringe on the rights of others. He stated that action should be taken against those who violate societal norms.
Rekha Sharma, former chairperson of the National Commission for Women (NCW), also condemned the video, calling it “very shocking.” She criticized the comments, saying such jokes about women, especially concerning their bodies, are unacceptable and reflect a moral decline in youth culture.
Additionally, Shiv Sena spokesperson Raju Wagamare issued a stern warning, stating that such language would not be tolerated in Maharashtra, a state known for its cultural legacy. “Under the legacy of Shivaji Maharaj, such language will not be tolerated,” Wagamare declared.
The episode has highlighted ongoing debates about the responsible use of social media and the importance of upholding societal values, particularly in a country like India, where freedom of expression must be balanced with respect for others.