Mumbai: The Khar Police have recorded statements from four individuals, including social media influencer Apoorva Mukhija, in connection with the controversial remarks made by Ranveer Allahbadia on the YouTube show India’s Got Latent.
According to officials from Khar Police Station, the statements included those of Allahbadia’s manager. However, Allahbadia himself has not yet been questioned. Mukhija, who was part of the show, was also among those whose statements were recorded.
The controversy erupted after a video clip of Allahbadia’s remarks went viral, sparking outrage. Following this, the Maharashtra Cyber Department registered an FIR on Tuesday. Nilotpal Mrinal Pandey, a BJP leader from Maharashtra’s Uttar Bhartiya Morcha, had filed a complaint against Allahbadia and others, alleging that offensive language was used in the show, including remarks against disabled persons. Pandey, who himself has a disability, has demanded strict action against the participants.
As the debate over freedom of speech versus decency continues, Allahbadia attempted damage control by issuing a public apology, calling his comment a lapse in judgment. However, the backlash remains strong.
The matter has even reached Parliament, where Shiv Sena MP Naresh Mhaske called for legislation to regulate social media content. Amidst growing scrutiny, the National Commission for Women (NCW) has taken action, summoning Allahbadia, along with fellow influencers Samay Raina, Apoorva Mukhija, Jaspreet Singh, and Ashish Chanchlani. The show’s producers, Tushar Poojari and Saurabh Bothra, have also been asked to appear before the commission in New Delhi on February 17. Investigations into the matter are ongoing.
