Mumbai: Maharashtra Cyber Cell has summoned actor Rakhi Sawant to record her statement on February 27 as part of its investigation into the ‘India’s Got Latent’ controversy. Popular YouTubers Ranveer Allahbadia and Ashish Chanchlani have also been called to provide statements on February 24. The controversy, which erupted after an inappropriate remark made on the show, has sparked multiple FIRs and legal action across states.

Summons and investigation

Inspector General Yashasvi Yadav confirmed that Rakhi Sawant has been summoned for questioning. Meanwhile, Samay Raina, another implicated YouTuber, had requested an extension until March 17 to provide his statement. However, Maharashtra Cyber Cell denied his plea, insisting on an in-person appearance. Raina had earlier missed his initial summons on February 18, prompting the authorities to issue a second notice. His request to record his statement via videoconferencing from the United States was also rejected.

The ‘India’s Got Latent’ controversy

The controversy began when podcaster Ranveer Allahbadia made an inappropriate remark on the show, asking a contestant:
"Would you rather watch your parents… or join in once and stop it forever?"

This sparked public outrage, leading to multiple complaints against Allahbadia, Raina, comedian Apoorva Makhija, and the show’s organisers. In response, Raina publicly apologised and removed all related content from his channel, stating that his intent was solely entertainment.

Legal action and Supreme Court’s response

Following the backlash, FIRs were lodged against the accused in Maharashtra and Assam. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma confirmed that Guwahati Police had registered a case against Allahbadia and others for promoting obscenity.

On February 18, the Supreme Court strongly condemned Allahbadia’s remarks, calling them “dirty and perverted.” Justices Surya Kant and N Kotiswar Singh emphasised that such behaviour must be unequivocally condemned, stating:
"The words used are deeply shameful, particularly in relation to families and society. Popularity does not grant anyone the right to take society for granted."

Allahbadia approached the Supreme Court, seeking consolidation of the charges against him. While the court granted him interim protection from arrest, it imposed strict conditions, including the surrender of his passport and a ban on travelling without prior approval. The court also urged the government to regulate inappropriate content on digital platforms.

Justice Kant remarked:
"We would like you (the government) to do something. Otherwise, we are not going to leave this vacuum and barren area the way it is being misused."

Maharashtra women’s commission welcomes SC intervention

The Maharashtra Women’s Commission has praised the Supreme Court’s decision, calling it “appropriate and necessary.” Chairperson Rupali Chakankar highlighted the importance of the ruling in addressing inappropriate digital content and ensuring accountability. The Commission had previously urged Mumbai Police to investigate the matter.

As the case unfolds, Maharashtra Cyber Cell continues its probe, with key figures from the controversy being called for questioning. The outcome of these investigations could set a precedent for the regulation of digital content and online accountability in India.

(With agency inputs)