India’s Got Latent row: SC directs release of Ranveer Allahbadia’s passport, YouTuber free to travel abroad

The Supreme Court on Monday directed Maharashtra police to release the passport of popular YouTuber Ranveer Allahbadia, who is facing charges for making alleged derogatory remarks during one of the episodes of ‘India’s Got Latent’ show. The apex court also permitted him to travel abroad.

 

The Supreme Court was hearing petitions moved by YouTubers Ranveer Allahbadia and Ashish Chanchlani seeking to quash FIRs or merge those registered in multiple states against them over their offensive comments during the show. Hearing the matter, a bench comprising Justices Surya Kant and N. Kotiswar Singh raised questions about clubbing the FIRs as the charges mentioned in cases filed by Maharashtra and Assam police were different.

 

Appearing for Maharashtra and Assam police, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta informed the court that the probe over both FIRs are complete and the petitioner might be required to appear again before charge-sheet is filed. Taking note of the developments, the apex court directed the Maharashtra Cyber Crime Bureau to release Allahbadia’s passport and noted “passport is ordered to be returned to enable him to travel abroad,” Bar and Bench reported. 

 

 

The case against the YouTubers stems from alleged obscene language they used in one of the episodes of the show. During an earlier hearing, the bench restricted registering fresh FIRs. Previously, the bench came down heavily on the YouTuber and said, “Using filthy language is not talent.” The bench also noted, “Every fundamental right is followed by duty. There are restrictions also”. 

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