New Delhi: The All Indian Cine Workers' Association (AICWA) on Tuesday, has strongly condemned the YouTube show India's Got Latent, alleging that it has "crossed all ethical and moral boundaries." The association has written to Union Home Minister Amit Shah and IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, demanding both a ban on the show and legal action against its creators.

The controversy surrounding India's Got Latent was sparked by a remark from influencer Ranveer Allahbadia, which many found objectionable. AICWA, in its letter, accused the show of promoting “objectionable and offensive content,” which it claims is detrimental to Indian society.

Accusations of manipulation and controversy-driven popularity

AICWA did not hold back in its criticism, stating that the show’s creators, including comedian Samay Raina, have been using “offensive content to increase their YouTube subscribers, manipulate views and achieve personal fame through controversy.”

The association believes that such tactics exploit public sentiment and degrade cultural values in the process.

Allegations of insulting family values

The association’s letter expressed concern over the kind of language used in the show, stating that it “has crossed all ethical and moral boundaries by using extremely derogatory language, including remarks against parents and family values - which is absolutely unacceptable in any civilized society.”

AICWA believes that content of this nature is not only disrespectful but also contributes to the decline of moral and cultural standards in the country.

Ban from the film industry

In a major move, AICWA has announced that all individuals associated with the controversial show will be banned from working in the Indian film industry.

“No Bollywood or regional film production house will work with them in the future,” the statement declared.

This decision could have serious consequences for the careers of those involved with India’s Got Latent, as AICWA holds considerable influence over hiring practices in the industry.

Call for immediate government action

Beyond just condemning the show, AICWA has urged the government to take swift and decisive action against its creators. The association accused them of “disrespecting Indian culture and values,” and argued that their content is harmful to the younger generation.

The letter further stated that India’s Got Latent has repeatedly used offensive language in multiple episodes.

“Their influence on youth is dangerous, as they are planting toxic ideas that will have long-term negative effects,” AICWA warned, calling for an immediate ban on the show.

AICWA also expressed concerns that if such content remains unchecked, it could tarnish India's global image. According to the association, the rise of offensive content on platforms like YouTube could set a precedent for other creators to follow, ultimately leading to the spread of “similar negativity.”

Demand for YouTube channel shutdown and censorship laws

The association has gone a step further by urging the government to shut down the India's Got Latent YouTube channel altogether. Additionally, AICWA has requested that all individuals involved in the show be barred from creating new YouTube channels in the future.

AICWA also held YouTube India accountable for allowing “harmful content” to be broadcast on its platform. The association has demanded that the government introduce a “strict censorship law” to prevent such incidents from happening again.

Cyber cell files FIR against, seeks removal of all episodes

In a separate development, the Maharashtra Cyber Department on Tuesday registered an FIR against YouTube reality show "India's Got Latent", which is facing criticism over crude comments made by social media influencer Ranveer Allahbadia, a police official said.

Summonses are being sent to about 30 guests who have participated in the show from the first episode till now, he said. The suo moto (on its own) FIR was lodged by the cyber cell after Allahbadia's distasteful comments on the show triggered a storm, said the official. 

According to the official, the Cyber Department has registered the case under relevant sections of the IT Act and sought removal of all episodes -- total 18 -- of the comedy show. During its probe, the Cyber Department found that participants and others associated with the show, including guests, were seen using "vulgar and obscene" language in the programme.

It has shortlisted such people, including judges of the show and guests, he said. 

The contorversy

The controversy erupted after remarks made by Allahbadia during a YouTube episode of 'India's Got Latent' were deemed offensive and derogatory.The comments, which were made in a joking context, sparked widespread outrage. 

Following the backlash, a complaint was filed with the Mumbai Commissioner and the Maharashtra Women's Commission in which the complainant alleged that the show used abusive language and made obscene remarks about women. The complaint stated that the remarks were made to gain popularity and financial benefit through online broadcasts.

In response to the backlash, Allahbadia released an apology video on X on Monday, admitting that his remark was inappropriate and not funny.

(with agency inputs)