NHRC Comes Into Picture! Seeks Removal of YouTuber Ranveer Allahbadia's Controversial Episode

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken serious note of a complaint against the YouTube show "India's Got Latent," hosted by comedian Samay Raina. The complaint, filed by Yogendra Singh Thakur, alleges that the show contains highly objectionable, inappropriate, and obscene content, including remarks that are derogatory towards women and children.

YouTuber Ranveer Allahbadia controversy | NHRC member Priyank Kanoongo writes to Mira Chatt, Head Public Policy, YouTube, directing "to take urgent action to remove the concerned episode/videos from YouTube. Prior to the removal of such content, you are also required to submit… pic.twitter.com/fxZbHzPo7i

— ANI (@ANI) February 10, 2025

Following this, NHRC member Priyank Kanoongo has written to Mira Chatt, Head of Public Policy at YouTube, directing the platform to urgently remove the controversial videos. The commission has also instructed YouTube to submit details of the channel and the specific videos to law enforcement authorities where an FIR has been registered, ensuring further legal action. The NHRC has mandated that an Action Taken Report be submitted within ten days.

Complaint Highlights Alleged Violations

The complaint asserts that "India’s Got Latent" promotes negativity, discrimination, and religious and cultural intolerance. It further claims that the show’s content fosters a corrupt mindset under the guise of freedom of speech, allegedly violating provisions under:

Bhartiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS)

Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act

Information Technology (IT) Act

Other relevant legal frameworks

Additionally, the NHRC noted that some episodes of the show feature explicit and vulgar statements about children and women, which not only violate fundamental rights but also threaten societal values.

Concerns Over Online Content

The NHRC expressed grave concern over the accessibility of such content on platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook, emphasizing its potential harm to the mental well-being and dignity of women and children. 

With the increasing scrutiny on digital content, this directive from the NHRC underscores the growing accountability of online platforms in curbing harmful and inappropriate material. The response from YouTube and further legal developments remain awaited.