The Supreme Court on Monday, March 3, permitted YouTuber Ranveer Allahbadia to resume his 'The Ranveer Show' with subject to him furnishing an undertaking that his podcast shows will maintain the desired standards of morality and decency so that viewers of any age group can watch.
The apex court stated that Allahbadia was allowed to start his show as the livelihood of 280 employees depends on its telecast. The court asked the Solicitor General, appearing for the Centre, to deliberate and suggest some measures that would not impinge on the fundamental right of free speech and expression but would also be effective enough to ensure that they are within the bounds of 19(4).
The Supreme Court said any draft regulatory measure in this regard can then be put in the public domain to invite suggestions from stakeholders before taking any legislative or judicial measure.
In the court, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta said, he saw the show out of curiosity, and it is not vulgar, but it is perverse. Humour is one thing, vulgarity is one thing, and perversity is another level. The court also asked the Assam investigating officer to fix a date and time for the purpose of Allahbadia to join the probe. With regards to Allahbadia's prayer to allow him to travel abroad as a guest in foreign countries, the Court said this prayer shall be considered after he joins the probe and is no longer required for the said purpose.