Ranveer Allahbadia’s podcast ban lifted; Supreme Court sets guidelines for ‘The Ranveer Show'

The Supreme Court of India has granted popular podcaster and YouTuber Ranveer Allahbadia partial relief, allowing him to resume his podcast, The Ranveer Show, under specific conditions. The decision follows Allahbadia’s plea seeking permission to continue his podcast, citing its significance as his primary source of livelihood. Allahbadia, who employs over 280 individuals, had been previously restrained from broadcasting his content due to allegations surrounding the nature of his discussions.
While the court has permitted the resumption of The Ranveer Show, it has imposed strict guidelines, emphasizing the need for content that aligns with societal decency standards. The case has sparked widespread debate on the balance between freedom of speech and content regulation in the digital media space. Additionally, the court has denied Allahbadia’s request for international travel, citing the ongoing investigation into the India’s Got Latent controversy.

The Supreme Court’s ruling allows Allahbadia to continue his podcast, provided he ensures that the content adheres to decency norms. Solicitor General (SG) Tushar Mehta, representing the Central government, argued that while Allahbadia’s content was not vulgar, it exhibited signs of “perversity.” He emphasized the necessity of regulatory measures to prevent digital media from broadcasting content that might violate moral and ethical standards.
The court has also urged authorities to consider new regulatory frameworks that uphold the right to free speech under Article 19(4) of the Constitution while ensuring content remains within acceptable boundaries. This directive signals the possibility of stricter content regulations for digital creators in the future.

Despite the partial relief granted to Allahbadia, the Supreme Court has denied his request to travel abroad. The court stated that his international travel would only be considered after he fully cooperates with the ongoing investigation linked to the India’s Got Latent case.
The apex court has instructed Assam’s investigating officer to coordinate with Allahbadia and finalize a date for his questioning. However, the court has maintained Allahbadia’s interim protection from arrest until further notice. Additionally, the court has ruled that no content related to the case should be aired, as it could potentially influence legal proceedings.

The controversy surrounding Allahbadia began when his remarks on comedian Samay Raina’s YouTube show, India’s Got Latent, attracted widespread criticism. Allahbadia later admitted to the Maharashtra Cyber Police that his comments on the show were inappropriate and regrettable. His remarks had led to multiple FIRs being filed against him, prompting legal scrutiny.
Previously, the Supreme Court had strongly criticized Allahbadia’s statements, labeling them as "condemnable and dirty." The court questioned whether he had a "license to speak such things" and emphasized the need for content creators to exercise greater responsibility when addressing sensitive topics.

Allahbadia has claimed that his appearance on India’s Got Latent was a favor to Samay Raina and that he had not received any financial compensation for participating in the show. However, the controversy has drawn in several other social media personalities, including Ashish Chanchlani and Apoorva Makhija, whose statements have been recorded as part of the investigation.
Furthermore, actor Rakhi Sawant has also been summoned for questioning on February 27 in connection with the case. Authorities are still awaiting a formal statement from Samay Raina, who played a central role in the incident.
In addition to Maharashtra’s investigation, the Assam Police have launched a parallel probe, intensifying legal scrutiny on Allahbadia and others involved. As investigations continue, the case remains a focal point in discussions about digital content regulation and accountability.