New Delhi [India], February 18: The Supreme Court of India has sharply criticized YouTuber and podcaster Ranveer Allahabadia for his inappropriate and vulgar comments during his appearance on the show India’s Got Latent, labeling his behavior as “dirty and perverted.” The bench, consisting of Justices Surya Kant and N. Kotiswar Singh, described Allahabadia’s remarks as a violation of societal standards, stating that such behavior must be condemned.
“If this is not obscenity, then what is obscenity?” the bench questioned during the hearing. Justice Kant expressed strong disapproval, stating, “Just because you are popular, you cannot take the society for granted. Is there anyone on earth who will like this language?” The judge further condemned Allahabadia for making “vomit-worthy” statements and for insulting not only his parents but the larger societal fabric. “Parents will feel ashamed. Daughters and sisters will feel ashamed. The entire society will be ashamed,” Justice Kant added, emphasizing the gravity of the comments.
Allahabadia, who faced multiple FIRs in cities like Mumbai, Guwahati, and Jaipur, had filed a plea before the court seeking to have the FIRs clubbed together and to secure interim protection from arrest. The Supreme Court granted him interim protection but imposed conditions. It directed that no further FIRs should be registered against him based on the episode of India’s Got Latent, and asked him to deposit his passport with the police, preventing him from leaving the country without the court’s permission.
Additionally, the bench noted that the interim protection would depend on Allahabadia’s cooperation with the investigation. The court also advised that he and his associates should stay away from show business for some time.
Allahabadia’s advocate, Abhnav Chandrachud, argued that the YouTuber had been receiving death threats due to the controversy, but Justice Kant responded, questioning whether such threats were merely attempts by others to gain “cheap publicity.” The court was particularly concerned about the obscenity of Allahabadia’s language, asking what “obscenity” and “vulgarity” mean in Indian society.
The court further questioned the government’s role in regulating content on YouTube and other social media platforms. Justice Kant urged the government to take action against the rising trend of obscene content being promoted by YouTubers. “We would like you (the government) to do something,” he said, addressing Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati, “otherwise, we are not going to leave this vacuum the way it is being misused by so-called YouTube channels and YouTubers.”
The matter also involves several other YouTubers who have been accused of promoting obscenity, with FIRs registered in various cities. Allahabadia, along with other influencers, has been under fire for engaging in sexually explicit discussions on the show India’s Got Latent, which has led to public backlash and legal scrutiny.
The Supreme Court’s remarks highlight growing concerns about the impact of social media influencers and the need for stronger regulation of online content to protect societal values.