Key Points:
- Supreme Court allows Ranveer Allahbadia to resume “The Ranveer Show” with content guidelines
- Allahbadia granted interim protection from arrest, must cooperate with investigation
- Court expands case scope to examine online content regulation
- Centre directed to draft regulatory measures for social media content
- Allahbadia prohibited from discussing the case on his show
New Delhi: The Supreme Court of India has granted partial relief to popular YouTuber and podcaster Ranveer Allahbadia, allowing him to resume his podcast “The Ranveer Show” under specific conditions. This decision comes after months of controversy surrounding Allahbadia’s comments on the YouTube show “India’s Got Latent.”
Podcast Resumes with Content Guidelines
The court permitted Allahbadia to continue his podcast, provided he submits an undertaking to maintain “standards of decency and morality” in his content. Justice Surya Kant emphasized that the show should be suitable for viewers of all age groups, drawing a clear line between humor and vulgarity.
“Using filthy language is not talent,” Justice Kant remarked, highlighting the court’s stance on content standards.
Legal Protection and Investigation
While granting Allahbadia interim protection from arrest, the court directed him to cooperate with the ongoing investigation in Guwahati. The YouTuber is facing multiple FIRs in Maharashtra and Assam over his controversial remarks.
Broader Implications for Online Content
The case has sparked a wider debate on regulating digital content. The Supreme Court expanded the scope of the proceedings to examine the need for regulatory measures that balance free speech with content standards.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the government, argued for measures to prevent the spread of vulgar content while respecting freedom of expression.
Next Steps: Content Regulation Framework
The court has directed the Centre to draft guidelines for regulating social media content, emphasizing the need for stakeholder input. This move signals potential changes in how digital content is monitored in India.
“We don’t want any regulatory regime which leads to censorship…but it can’t be a free for all,” Justice Kant stated, outlining the delicate balance the court seeks to achieve.
As the case continues, it remains a focal point in discussions about digital content regulation, free speech, and the responsibilities of content creators in the age of social media.
