YouTube has taken down an episode of 'India's Got Latent' featuring podcaster Ranveer Allahbadia after receiving a notice from the Information and Broadcasting Ministry.
The removal follows widespread criticism over a crass remark made by Allahbadia during the show, which sparked controversy and legal action.
National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) also sought the video's removal, citing concerns over obscenity and societal impact. NHRC member Priyank Kanoongo confirmed that the commission had received complaints regarding the episode.
Allahbadia, popularly known as BeerBiceps, faced backlash after a viral clip from the show showed him asking an inappropriate question to a contestant. The comment was widely condemned on social media, with critics highlighting the dangers of mature content being easily accessible to all age groups.
Legal troubles have also mounted for the 31-year-old podcaster, who boasts 1.05 crore YouTube subscribers and 4.5 million Instagram followers. A police case has been filed against him in Assam, while multiple complaints have been registered in Mumbai. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma confirmed that Allahbadia and others associated with the episode face charges under several sections, including obscenity.
In response to the uproar, Allahbadia issued a public apology, acknowledging his mistake. "My comment wasn't just inappropriate, it wasn’t even funny. Comedy is not my forte, I am just here to say sorry," he said in a video message. He further admitted to a lapse in judgment and assured viewers that he takes his platform's influence seriously.
The NHRC has also urged YouTube to review and regulate such content to ensure it does not violate ethical standards or promote offensive material.
