The Supreme Court has granted permission to podcaster and YouTuber Ranveer Allahbadia to continue airing his podcast, ‘The Ranveer Show,’ provided he maintains decency in his content. This decision came after Allahbadia filed an application seeking partial relief from a previous court order that had restrained him from broadcasting his shows. He argued that his livelihood depends on the platform, which employs 280 individuals.
Solicitor General (SG) Tushar Mehta, representing the Centre, remarked that while Allahbadia’s show is not vulgar, it is “perverse.” He distinguished between humor, vulgarity, and perversity, suggesting that regulatory measures might be necessary to prevent content violating societal moral standards. The court asked the SG to explore potential regulations that would uphold free speech under Article 19(4) while ensuring content remains within acceptable boundaries.
Travel Restrictions and Ongoing Investigations
Despite this relief, the Supreme Court denied Allahbadia’s request to travel abroad, stating that it would only be considered after he cooperates with the ongoing investigation in the ‘India’s Got Latent‘ case. The apex court directed Assam’s investigating officer to coordinate with Allahbadia and set a date for his questioning. However, his interim protection from arrest remains in place until further notice. Additionally, the court ruled that no content related to the case should be aired, as it could impact legal proceedings.
Moreover, Allahbadia admitted before the Maharashtra Cyber Police that his remarks on comedian Samay Raina’s YouTube show, ‘India’s Got Latent,’ were a mistake. Officials reported that he acknowledged his comments were inappropriate and had caused widespread controversy, leading to multiple FIRs. The Supreme Court previously criticized his statements, calling them “condemnable and dirty,” questioning whether he had a “license to speak such things.”
During questioning, Allahbadia claimed he appeared on the show as a favor to Samay Raina and was not paid for his participation. The controversy has led to the involvement of other social media influencers, including Ashish Chanchlani and Apoorva Makhija, whose statements have been recorded. Actor Rakhi Sawant has also been summoned for questioning on February 27, while authorities are still awaiting Samay Raina’s statement.
Meanwhile, the Assam Police have launched a parallel investigation, further intensifying scrutiny on Allahbadia and others involved. The case remains under active investigation.
Source: The Times Of India
