SC Allows Ranveer Allahbadia to Resume Shows But With Conditions

The Supreme Court has given YouTuber and podcaster Ranveer Allahbadia the green light to resume The Ranveer Show and participate in other shows, but there’s a catch. He must follow “standards of decency and morality,” ensuring that his content suits all age groups.

Big Relief for BeerBiceps

This decision comes after Ranveer Allahbadia was temporarily banned from airing any shows due to multiple FIRs filed against him over his comments in a viral episode of India’s Got Latent, hosted by comedian Samay Raina. The Supreme Court had earlier slammed Allahbadia for his remarks, calling them “perverted” and “a complete nuisance.” However, acknowledging the impact of the ban on his livelihood and the 280 employees dependent on his company, the court allowed him to continue podcasting and participate in shows with restrictions.

Court Pushes for Online Content Regulation, But Not Censorship?

While allowing Allahbadia to restart his career, the Supreme Court took a broader view of the situation, nudging the Union government to draft laws regulating online content without turning them into censorship tools.

The key takeaway? The court doesn’t want a “free-for-all” situation on the internet where anything goes anywhere, but it also doesn’t want an excessive crackdown that curbs free speech.

Justice’s Remarks Summed up for you.

“There is no absolute fundamental right on a platter in this country. All rights come with corresponding duties and responsibilities.”

The discussion focused on balancing reasonable speech restrictions with public decency and morality.

What are the proposed regulations?

• Put in the public domain for stakeholder feedback
• Balanced, so they don’t become censorship tools
• Focused on preventing obscene and offensive content without limiting creativity

Another point from the Justice is that “Humour doesn’t have to rely on ‘filthy language’ to be funny.” The Solicitor General agreed, saying, “If you have to use vulgarity to make me laugh, you are not a good comedian.”

Now, Allahbadia’s Defense: “It’s My Livelihood”

During the latest hearing, Allahbadia’s lawyer, Dr Abhinav Chandrachud, argued that the podcast ban affected Allahbadia and his 280 employees. He assured the court that his client would not use profanity.

Additionally, Allahbadia’s request to travel abroad for recordings was deferred, meaning he must first cooperate with the investigation and close the case before the court considers lifting travel restrictions.

A quick recap of ‘India’s Got Latent’ Controversy.

• The controversy began when Ranveer Allahbadia, Ashish Chanchlani, Jaspreet Singh, and Apoorva Makhija appeared on India’s Got Latent last month.
• Clips from the show with sexual references involving parents went viral, leading to public outrage.
• FIRs were filed, making Allahbadia a key target of criticism.
• Host Samay Raina took down all episodes and apologised, followed by an apology from Ranveer Allahbadia.
• On February 10, Guwahati Police filed an FIR against five content creators for promoting obscenity. The Maharashtra Cyber Department and Jaipur Police also took action.
• Allahbadia sought protection from multiple cases in the Supreme Court.
• On February 18, the Supreme Court granted him interim protection from arrest but imposed a temporary ban on podcasting.

Also Read: Ranveer Allahbadia Apologises After India’s Got Latent Show’s Controversy

The Habitat Tiptoes Back with Open Mic Shows

The Habitat, known for its comedy roots, is making a calculated shift with its Open Mic Shows. It is rebranding itself after the IGL controversy. Instead of its usual comedy lineup, it promotes a more “soft-hearted” artistic space.

Interestingly, one of the last major unreleased episodes featured Ashish Vidyarthi, Dalip Tahil, Atul Khatri, and Paramjit Singh Ghai. Paramjit, the owner of The Habitat, is now the face of their new initiative.

The Habitat proclaims, “We are back, let’s enjoy”. The question remains: Has the venue truly changed, or is this just damage control in verse?

Also Read: Ranveer Allahbadia’s Consequences After ‘Parent’s Sex’ Remark

What Happens Next?

Now, all eyes are on the Union government and how it approaches online content regulation.

What are the regulatory measures?

• Keep obscenity in check.
• Maintain free speech rights.
• Do not lead to outright censorship.

The court also wants these measures open to public debate before implementation, whether through judicial orders or new laws via polls.

As for Allahbadia, he is free to continue his podcast and participate in shows, but with a warning.

• Stick to “standards of decency and morality.”
• Do not comment on the ongoing case
• Ensure his content is suitable for family audiences