The National Commission for Women has summoned YouTubers Ranveer Allahbadia, Samay Raina, Apoorva Makhija, Jaspreet Singh, and Ashish Chanchlani, along with the show's producers, Tushar Poojari and Saurabh Bothra, over alleged derogatory remarks made on the show India’s Got Latent. They have been asked to appear before the commission on February 17 at its office in Delhi.
The women’s panel condemned the vulgar and offensive statements made by the creators. In an official statement, the NCW said these remarks had sparked public outrage and violated the dignity and respect owed to individuals in a society that upholds equality and mutual respect.
The Maharashtra Cyber Cell has registered an FIR against more than 30 people linked to India’s Got Latent.
The controversy began after Allahbadia, also known as the "BeerBiceps," made a remark in a recent episode that sparked outrage. The video was later removed from YouTube after the government issued a notice. Police complaints have been filed in Mumbai and Guwahati against Allahbadia, Raina, Makhija, and others involved in the episode.
Allahbadia may also be called before a parliamentary panel. Shiv Sena MP Priyanka Chaturvedi, a member of the Standing Committee on Information and Broadcasting, said she would raise the issue in Parliament. She criticized offensive content in comedy, stating that free speech does not allow individuals to cross limits.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis also responded to the controversy. He said freedom of speech must not infringe on others' rights and warned that action would be taken if boundaries were crossed.
Following the backlash, Allahbadia issued an apology. He admitted that his comment was inappropriate and not humorous. In a video message, he said that he had a lapse in judgment and did not intend to misuse his platform.