Ranveer Allahbadia’s Remarks ‘Shameful, Obscene,’ Says SC—Legal Battle Continues

The Supreme Court on Tuesday strongly criticised podcaster Ranveer Gautam Allahbadia for his remarks on the online show “India’s Got Latent,” calling his words shameful and deeply offensive.

A Bench of Justice Surya Kant and Justice N Kotiswar Singh expressed strong disapproval, stating that Allahbadia’s comments insulted society, parents, and young viewers.

“There has to be a height of lack of responsibility. This kind of condemnable behaviour… that somebody thinks ‘I am popular, so I can say anything’—this cannot be allowed,” the Court remarked.

Court’s Strong Condemnation of Allahbadia’s Comments

• Justice Surya Kant questioned if anyone would find his words acceptable, adding, “Your words would put anyone to shame—parents, daughters, sisters, younger brothers. This kind of perversion and vulgarity is unacceptable.”
• The Court rejected arguments that profanity alone does not amount to obscenity, stating, “It’s not just about lustful thoughts; it’s about societal values and respect.”
• The Bench also noted that Allahbadia had copied content from a foreign show and pointed out that in other countries, adult content is often preceded by warnings and restrictions.

Counsel’s Defence and Court’s Response

Dr. Abhinav Chandrachud, appearing for Allahbadia, admitted his personal disgust at the remarks but argued that they may not meet the legal threshold for a criminal offence.

However, the Supreme Court dismissed this argument, stating:

“If this is not obscenity, then what is? Should vulgarity be allowed anytime, anywhere? Are there no boundaries?”

Supreme Court Protects Allahbadia from Arrest but Condemns His Actions

While the Court criticised Allahbadia harshly, it granted him protection from arrest in multiple FIRs filed across Mumbai, Gauhati, and Jaipur.

The case has sparked widespread public debate on free speech and accountability in digital content creation.

Next Hearing & Legal Developments

• Arguments on whether Allahbadia’s remarks constitute a criminal offence will continue.
• The Supreme Court will further examine legal standards for obscenity in digital media.