In a significant legal development, the Supreme Court has granted interim protection from arrest to YouTuber Ranveer Allahbadia in connection with multiple FIRs filed against him over his remarks on India’s Got Latent. The court heard his plea today and has provided him temporary relief while also imposing strict conditions to ensure his cooperation with the investigation.
Ranveer Allahbadia Moves Supreme Court for Relief
Ranveer Allahbadia had approached the Supreme Court seeking to club the FIRs registered against him in various states, including Maharashtra, Assam, and Jaipur. These FIRs stemmed from the controversial episode aired on India’s Got Latent, which led to public outrage and legal complaints. The Supreme Court, after hearing the plea, ruled in favour of granting him interim protection, preventing immediate arrest.
Following the controversy, Ranveer Allahbadia claimed that he has been receiving death threats through social media, and his family has also been subjected to harassment. Given the threats, the Supreme Court’s ruling allows him to seek protection from local police to ensure his safety and that of his family.
Court’s Conditions and Directives
The relief from the Supreme Court has come with conditions for Ranveer Allahbadia:
- You must fully cooperate with the investigation.
- No further FIRs should be registered against him in connection to the India’s Got Latent episode.
- You must deposit your passport with the police, restricting him from leaving the country without prior court permission.
The court made it clear that the protection granted is conditional and subject to his compliance with the ongoing investigation.
Supreme Court’s Sharp Criticism
During the hearing, the Supreme Court strongly criticized Ranveer Allahbadia for his remarks on India’s Got Latent, calling them vulgar and inappropriate. The bench remarked, “Just because you are popular, you cannot take society for granted. Is there anyone on earth who would like this language? There is something very dirty in his mind which has been vomited. Why should we protect him?”
The court’s stern remarks indicate a broader concern over the misuse of social media influence and the responsibility that comes with digital fame.
Legal Representation and Future Restrictions
Ranveer Allahbadia was represented in court by lawyer Abhinav Chandrachud, son of former Chief Justice DY Chandrachud. The legal team argued for protection, citing concerns over multiple FIRs and potential harassment due to the widespread nature of the case.
Additionally, as per reports, the Supreme Court has also advised Ranveer Allahbadia to refrain from conducting or releasing any new shows for a certain period. This move is seen as a preventive measure to de-escalate the controversy and maintain public order.
What’s Next for Ranveer Allahbadia?
With interim protection in place, Ranveer Allahbadia will now have to navigate the legal proceedings while ensuring full compliance with investigative agencies. The Supreme Court’s directives indicate that while protection has been granted, the judiciary is keeping a close watch on the case, and any violation could lead to stricter actions.
As the controversy unfolds, it remains to be seen how this case shapes the landscape of digital content regulation in India.
