Govt seeks report on Ranveer Allahbadia's controversial remarks about parents

The Women and Child Development Ministry will investigate YouTuber Ranveer Allahbadia’s controversial remarks about parents and sex. Minister Annapurna Devi said the ministry will request a report from the National Commission for Women (NCW). Allahbadia's comments, made on the YouTube show "India's Got Latent," sparked widespread criticism. He later apologised.

NCW Calls for Action Against Obscene Content

The NCW has urged Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw to implement immediate regulatory measures to address concerns over the increasing prevalence of obscene content on over-the-top (OTT) platforms and social-media streaming sites. In a letter to Vaishnaw, NCW Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar requested the issuance of strict guidelines to prevent platforms from streaming or allowing users to upload inappropriate content.

Allahbadia’s Comments Spark Outrage

Allahbadia’s remarks, made on the YouTube reality show “India’s Got Latent,” hosted by comedian Samay Raina, drew widespread criticism. The YouTuber, who has nearly 16 million followers, later apologized, stating that comedy is not his strength.

Legal Concerns Raised

The NCW highlighted that such content violates multiple legal provisions, including the Indecent Representation of Women (Prohibition) Act, the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, and the Information Technology (IT) Act. The commission emphasized that such material reinforces harmful stereotypes and threatens the safety and dignity of women and children.

Ministry's Next Steps

Responding to the issue, Devi stated, “Will seek a report from the NCW.” The NCW has also requested that the action taken by Vaishnaw’s ministry be communicated to the commission promptly.

Focus on Digital Safety

The NCW reiterated that ensuring the safety, dignity, and well-being of women must be prioritized on all digital platforms. It remains to be seen what regulatory measures the government will introduce in response to these concerns.

(Inputs from PTI)