The Supreme Court of India has permitted popular YouTuber and podcaster Ranveer Allahbadia to resume his show, The Ranveer Show, under strict conditions. The court mandated that Allahbadia must ensure his content adheres to moral and decency standards, making it suitable for audiences of all ages. This decision has sparked a heated debate on social media, with many users labeling the Supreme Court as "the new censor board."
The controversy began when Allahbadia made remarks on comedian Samay Raina's YouTube show, India's Got Latent, which were widely criticised as obscene. The incident led to multiple FIRs being filed against him in Maharashtra and Assam, prompting legal scrutiny.
The Supreme Court allowed Allahbadia to resume his podcast, provided he furnishes an undertaking to maintain public morality and decency in his content. This decision reflects the court's emphasis on balancing free speech with societal norms. The court considered the livelihoods of Allahbadia's 280 employees, who would be impacted by the show's suspension. The court extended interim protection to Allahbadia against arrest in multiple FIRs, pending further investigation.
The ruling has sparked a mixed reaction online, with many users questioning whether the Supreme Court is overstepping its bounds by dictating content standards. Critics argue that this move could set a precedent for stricter content regulation, potentially infringing on free speech rights
Regulatory Framework: The Supreme Court has hinted at the need for a regulatory framework for digital media, emphasising the importance of maintaining moral standards without infringing on free speech.
Public Consultation: The court suggested that any proposed regulations should be put in the public domain for feedback before implementation.