Ranveer & Samay Face Legal Trouble on India’s Got Latent

Ranveer & Samay Face Legal Trouble on India’s Got Latent

India’s Got Latent is an Indian talent show created and hosted by comedian Samay Raina. The show provides a platform for contestants to showcase their skills. Launched on June 14, 2024, on Raina’s YouTube channel, it humorously mimics the Got Talent franchise and Kill Tony.

Ranveer & Samay Face Legal Trouble on India’s Got Latent

The show features a variety of acts, including singing, dancing, comedy, and magic. A unique aspect is its rating system, where contestants rate themselves before performing. If the judges’ average score matches the self-rating, the contestant wins.

India’s Got Latent generates over Rs 1.5 crore per month from YouTube memberships and additional revenue from in-stream advertisements.

The Controversy

A viral clip showed Ranveer Allahbadia making a vulgar comment on India’s Got Latent. He asked a contestant a “would you rather” question about their parents’ sex life. Social media erupted in outrage over the remark.

Complaints and FIRs

A complaint reached the Mumbai police commissioner and the Maharashtra Women’s Commission. The complaint accused the show of using obscene and derogatory remarks about women to gain popularity and financial benefits.

Authorities in Assam registered an FIR against Ranveer Allahbadia, Samay Raina, Ashish Chanchlani, Jaspreet Singh, and Apoorva Makhija. The complaint alleged that they promoted obscenity and engaged in sexually explicit discussions, harming public decency.

A National Students Union of India member also approached the Bandra magistrate court, demanding a criminal investigation against the show’s organizers.

Police Investigation

Mumbai Police summoned Ranveer Allahbadia and Samay Raina for questioning regarding the incident.

Apology and Response

Ranveer Allahbadia publicly apologized, admitting his comment was inappropriate and not funny. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis addressed the controversy, stating that freedom of speech does not permit encroaching on others’ rights.

The show’s creators removed the controversial episode from YouTube.

Earlier Controversy

This is not the first backlash against India’s Got Latent. Earlier, contestant Jessy Nabam made derogatory remarks about the indigenous people of Arunachal Pradesh, sparking criticism.

Despite these issues, the show remains popular for its diverse talent and unpredictable humor. Celebrity judges often provide feedback, making it engaging for viewers. However, this latest controversy raises concerns about its future.

Public Outcry and Criticism

Many social media users condemned Allahbadia’s remarks. Some questioned the lack of content regulation on online platforms. Memes flooded the internet, highlighting concerns about irresponsible content creation.

Digital creator Aashish Chandorkar criticized the situation, arguing that Indian platforms fail to incentivize decency. He pointed out that many creators resort to controversial content for reach and revenue.

Following the backlash, Ranveer Allahbadia reiterated his apology on X (formerly Twitter). He acknowledged his lapse in judgment and took responsibility for his words. He also requested the show’s creators to remove the offensive content.

Some accepted his apology, while others questioned his judgment. While a few defended the show’s humor, many emphasized the need for more responsible content.

YouTube removed the controversial video after receiving a notice from the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC).