NCW calls YouTubers Ranveer Allahbadia, Apoorva Mukhija over controversial remarks
What's the story
The National Commission for Women (NCW) has summoned popular YouTubers Ranveer Allahbadia and Apoorva Mukhija over their controversial remarks on Samay Raina's show India's Got Latent.
The duo is accused of making "insensitive and crass" remarks that were widely perceived as misogynistic and disrespectful toward women.
These comments have ignited a social media storm, leading to widespread condemnation of the influencers.
The pair was summoned on Thursday, after NCW rescheduled their hearing last month.
Viral remark
Allahbadia's comment that sparked the controversy
The controversy erupted after a particular comment by Allahbadia went viral.
He questioned a contestant, "Would you rather watch your parents have sex every day for the rest of your life or join in once and stop it forever?"
The comment was soon shared across social media platforms, with many people accusing the YouTubers of promoting harmful attitudes and perpetuating gender stereotypes.
Legal proceedings
NCW's swift action and ongoing inquiry into the matter
Responding to the controversy, the NCW summoned both Allahbadia and Mukhija, asking them to explain their conduct. The commission is currently conducting an inquiry into the matter.
On Thursday, both influencers appeared before the NCW to record their statements in the ongoing investigation. However, the details of these statements have not yet been made public. They were originally supposed to come to the hearing on February 17.
Public response
'India's Got Latent' host and influencers respond to controversy
After the backlash, Raina took down all episodes of India's Got Latent from his YouTube channel and promised full cooperation with authorities. He confessed that handling the situation had been difficult for him.
Meanwhile, Allahbadia tendered a public apology, admitting his comments were "not only inappropriate but also not funny at all."
Court warning
SC warned YouTubers about balancing morality and freedom of expression
Along with the NCW summons, the Supreme Court also gave a stern warning to the YouTubers.
The court stressed the need for influencers to strike a balance between morality and freedom of expression in their content.
It also urged the Centre to consider this incident while formulating guidelines for digital content.
This legal action highlights the increasing concern over online personalities' influence on public discourse and societal norms.