Ranveer Allahbadia row: Supreme Court questions his ‘quality of humour’, says can’t be ‘free for all’

While addressing the request of YouTube star Ranveer Allahbadia regarding the India’s Got Latent controversy, the Supreme Court on Monday urged the central government to propose steps that would stop the airing of shows deemed inappropriate for “our society,” without violating the fundamental right of free speech and expression. The court condemned the YouTuber and his comments on the contentious YouTube program, stating that employing vulgar language under the guise of humor does not showcase talent.

“They submit that to prevent the telecast or airing of programs which are not acceptable to the known norms of our society, some regulatory measures may be required. We have requested SG to deliberate upon and suggest such measures which shall not impinge the fundamental right of free speech and expression but also be effective enough to ensure that it is within the bounds of 19(4),”

The court stated that any proposed regulatory actions must be made public to solicit input from all parties involved before any legislative or judicial action is taken.

“See the quality of humour he has… humour is something the entire family can enjoy, nobody feels embarrassed. Using all filthy language is not talent,” he observed.

He observed that there can be “very limited regulatory measures which must not lead to censorship” but have “some element of control”.

“It is a question for feeding posterity also. Something needs to be done. If somebody wants to watch something on the channel, let them,” he added.

Last month, the court severely criticised Allahbadia for making vulgar remarks on Samay Raina’s India’s Got Latent show, saying such behaviour should be condemned.

“Such behaviour has to be condemned. Just because you are popular, you cannot take society for granted. Is there anyone on earth who would like this language? There is something very dirty in his mind which has been vomited. Why should we protect him,” the court said