On Monday, the Supreme Court granted YouTuber and podcaster Ranveer Allahabadia permission to continue his podcast, ‘The Ranveer Show,’ on the condition that he upholds standards of decency and morality.
A bench consisting of Justices Surya Kant and N. Kotiswar Singh recognized that the livelihoods of approximately 280 employees are tied to the show’s broadcast.

“Currently, the petitioner has been restricted from airing any episodes. However, provided that the petitioner submits a commitment to ensure his podcast adheres to appropriate standards of morality and decency for audiences of all ages, he is allowed to resume ‘The Ranveer Show,’” the bench stated in its ruling.

Previously, the court had instructed Allahabadia and his team to refrain from participating in show business for a period. Furthermore, the apex court called upon the Centre to suggest regulatory measures for content shared on YouTube channels and social media platforms.

The bench considered input from Attorney General R. Venkatramani and Solicitor General Tushar Mehta regarding the potential need for regulations to prevent the airing of programs that do not conform to recognized moral standards within society.

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The Solicitor General was asked to discuss and propose regulations that protect the fundamental right to free speech while ensuring content remains within the bounds of acceptable standards, as per Section 19. Any proposed regulatory measures can later be released for public feedback before any legislative or judicial action is taken.

Additionally, the court extended its temporary order shielding Allahabadia from arrest in connection with FIRs filed against him in Guwahati, Mumbai, and Jaipur. The bench was reviewing his petition aimed at consolidating these FIRs linked to controversial remarks made during an episode of ‘India’s Got Latent.’

During the proceedings, the Supreme Court emphasized that while individuals have the right to choose what to watch, commercial motivations do not justify the use of inappropriate content. The Solicitor General remarked that while free expression is crucial, it is essential to prevent vulgarity and inappropriate material from reaching younger audiences.

Concerning Allahabadia’s request for permission to travel abroad as a guest, the bench indicated that this request would be considered after he participates in the investigation and is no longer required for that purpose.

Previously, the Supreme Court criticized Allahabadia for his offensive comments made during his appearance on ‘India’s Got Latent,’ calling them “dirty and perverted.” The court had also ordered that no new FIRs could be filed against him related to that episode and required him to surrender his passport to the police, stating he could not leave the country without court permission.

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The top court engaged with the Centre on addressing obscene content on YouTube and social media, acknowledging the sensitivity and significance of the matter. On February 11, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma reported that Guwahati Police had registered an FIR against Allahabadia, along with several other influencers, for promoting obscenity and engaging in sexually explicit and vulgar discussions on ‘India’s Got Latent.’