Ranveer Allahbadia, Apoorva Mukhija face NCW inquiry
The National Commission for Women (NCW) has taken serious note of the remarks made by Ranveer Allahbadia, Apoorva Makhija, Samay Raina, Jaspreet Singh, and Ashish Chanchlani on the show India’s Got Latent and summoned them for questioning. The commission expressed concern over the content, emphasizing its potential impact on viewers. Authorities are investigating whether the statements made during the show violated ethical or legal boundaries. The summoned individuals are expected to clarify their stance and provide explanations regarding their remarks. The NCW remains committed to addressing issues related to gender sensitivity and ensuring accountability in public discourse.
Social media influencers Ranveer Allahbadia and Apoorva Mukhija appeared before the National Commission for Women (NCW) on Thursday, March 6, 2025, after being summoned over derogatory remarks made on comedian Samay Raina’s show India’s Got Latent. The commission had taken serious note of the comments made during the show, which also involved popular content creators like Jaspreet Singh and Ashish Chanchlani.
The NCW’s decision to summon them came after widespread backlash over certain statements that were deemed offensive and inappropriate. The commission stated that such remarks, especially when made on a widely viewed digital platform, could promote misogyny and encourage insensitive narratives.
NCW’s Concerns and Response
The NCW, which actively monitors cases of gender-related offenses, took immediate action following complaints from viewers and activists. According to officials, the commission is particularly concerned about how digital influencers use their platforms and the potential impact of their words.
“The internet is a powerful space, and influencers have a responsibility towards their audiences. Public figures must ensure that their content does not promote harmful stereotypes or disrespect women,” an NCW spokesperson said.
The commission’s intervention highlights the growing scrutiny of digital content and the role of regulatory bodies in ensuring that social media remains a responsible and inclusive space.
The controversy erupted after clips from India’s Got Latent, a popular online show hosted by comedian Samay Raina, began circulating on social media. The episode in question featured a panel of influencers, including Ranveer Allahbadia, Apoorva Mukhija, Jaspreet Singh, and Ashish Chanchlani, engaging in discussions that some viewers found problematic.
Critics argue that the jokes and remarks made during the episode crossed the line from humor to offensive commentary. While comedy often thrives on pushing boundaries, many believe that some statements were made at the expense of women, reinforcing negative stereotypes.
After the episode aired, social media users called out the participants, urging the NCW to take action. Hashtags demanding accountability trended on various platforms, leading to the commission’s formal involvement.
Ranveer Allahbadia and Apoorva Mukhija’s Defense
Upon appearing before the NCW, Ranveer Allahbadia and Apoorva Mukhija addressed the commission’s concerns. Sources close to the matter revealed that both influencers expressed regret if their words were perceived as offensive but maintained that their intention was never to demean anyone.
Ranveer Allahbadia, known for his podcast and motivational content, reportedly stated that his participation in the show was in a lighthearted capacity and that he never intended to propagate harmful narratives. He emphasized the importance of responsible content creation and assured the commission of his commitment to ethical media practices.
Apoorva Mukhija, a popular digital creator, echoed similar sentiments, stating that she respects the concerns raised and is open to discussions on responsible comedy. If something we said was hurtful, we are open to acknowledging it and improving,” she reportedly said.
Both influencers clarified that while they support freedom of expression in comedy, they also believe in ensuring that humor does not come at the cost of sensitivity and inclusivity.
The Broader Debate: Where Does Comedy Cross the Line?
This incident has once again sparked the ongoing debate about the fine line between comedy and offensive content. In recent years, comedians and content creators have faced increasing scrutiny over their jokes, with many questioning whether cancel culture is stifling artistic freedom or ensuring accountability.
Supporters of India’s Got Latent argue that comedy should be allowed to push boundaries and challenge social norms without fear of repercussions. They believe that humor is subjective and that outrage culture is leading to unnecessary policing of content.
On the other hand, critics argue that while free speech is important, influencers with massive reach must be mindful of their words. They believe that platforms like YouTube and social media hold significant power in shaping public discourse, and therefore, should not be used to perpetuate harmful stereotypes.
The incident involving India’s Got Latent highlights the need for a balanced approach where creators can exercise creative freedom while also being conscious of the impact of their words.
Possible Outcomes and Next Steps
The NCW has not yet announced any formal penalties or directives following the hearing with Ranveer Allahbadia and Apoorva Mukhija. However, sources suggest that the commission may issue guidelines for digital content creators, emphasizing the importance of responsible communication.
There is also a possibility that platforms hosting such content, including YouTube and other streaming services, could introduce stricter community guidelines to prevent the spread of content deemed inappropriate or offensive.
Meanwhile, Samay Raina, Jaspreet Singh, and Ashish Chanchlani, who were also summoned by the NCW, are expected to appear before the commission soon. Their statements will likely play a crucial role in determining the final outcome of the case.
Reactions from the Public and Industry Peers
The controversy has sparked mixed reactions across social media. While some users support the NCW’s decision to hold influencers accountable, others believe that this sets a concerning precedent for creative expression.
Industry peers have also weighed in, with several comedians and digital creators sharing their thoughts on the matter. Some argue that constructive criticism should be welcomed, while others feel that comedians are unfairly targeted for making jokes.
Renowned comedian and YouTuber Tanmay Bhat commented on the situation, saying, “Comedy has always been about testing limits. But with great reach comes great responsibility. We should always be open to feedback and learning.”
Conclusion
The India’s Got Latent controversy has brought to the forefront important conversations about content creation, digital responsibility, and the evolving landscape of comedy. While humor is an essential part of entertainment, the incident underscores the need for influencers to be mindful of their words and their impact.
As digital platforms continue to grow, it is clear that accountability and ethical storytelling will become even more significant. Whether this leads to self-regulation among content creators or stricter guidelines from regulatory bodies, the debate over where to draw the line in comedy and online discourse is far from over.