Supreme Court Reprimands YouTuber Ranveer Allahbadia Over Objectionable Comments on Samay Raina’s Show
'He spewed out his mind's filth on the show,' says SC
The Supreme Court has strongly reprimanded YouTuber and podcaster Ranveer Allahbadia for making indecent and objectionable comments during his appearance on Samay Raina’s show, India’s Got Latent. The apex court questioned Allahbadia regarding his remarks and emphasized the importance of societal values.
The court stated that Allahbadia’s comments reflected the ‘filth in his mind,’ which he openly expressed on the show. The bench asked, ‘What are the values of society? What are these parameters? Do you even know?’ It further reminded the influencer’s legal counsel that society has certain self-developed values that must be respected.
‘No Freedom to Speak Anything Against Social Norms,’ SC
Addressing the issue of free speech, the Supreme Court clarified that freedom of expression does not grant anyone the right to violate societal norms. The court stressed that individuals, regardless of their influence or popularity, cannot make remarks that undermine the moral fabric of society.
‘What are the Parameters of Obscenity and Vulgarity?’ Asks Apex Court
Ranveer Allahbadia, a well-known YouTuber, was criticized for making inappropriate comments about family and parents during his participation in India’s Got Latent. Expressing its displeasure, the Supreme Court questioned Allahbadia’s lawyer about the standards defining obscenity and vulgarity. ‘What are the parameters of obscenity and vulgarity?’ the court asked, pressing for accountability in public discourse.
SC: ‘Such Behaviour Should Be Condemned’
The Supreme Court also raised concerns over whether public figures like Allahbadia believe their popularity grants them the freedom to use inappropriate language. ‘If a person thinks that he is so popular, does that mean he can speak any kind of words? Can he take the whole society lightly? Is there anyone on earth who would like this language?’ the court questioned.
Condemning his remarks, the court reiterated that Allahbadia’s words revealed something inherently distasteful in his mindset, which he had openly expressed.
SC Comments on Alleged Threats Received by Allahbadia
During the hearing, Allahbadia’s lawyer claimed that the YouTuber had been receiving threats following the controversy. In response, Justice Suryakant remarked, ‘If you can get cheap publicity by using abusive language, then this person (who has threatened the petitioner) is also getting publicity by issuing threats.’ The court’s statement underscored the broader issue of sensationalism in public discourse.
Interim Protection from Arrest Granted
In a related development, the Supreme Court has granted interim protection to Ranveer Allahbadia against arrest after multiple FIRs were filed against him concerning his remarks on India’s Got Latent. The legal proceedings in this case continue, with the apex court keeping a close watch on developments.
This incident has sparked widespread debate on the limits of free speech, the role of influencers in shaping public opinion, and the responsibilities they hold toward maintaining decency in public platforms.
