The intensifying controversy surrounding the YouTube series India’s Got Latent has led to a formal investigation by the Maharashtra Cyber Cell, which has issued summonses to several individuals associated with the program.
Notably, actress Rakhi Sawant and prominent YouTubers Ashish Chanchlani and Ranveer Allahbadia have been called to provide statements following widespread public condemnation of a contentious segment from the show.
Inspector General Yashasvi Yadav of the Maharashtra Cyber Cell confirmed that Rakhi Sawant has been directed to appear on February 27. Given reports of her relocation to Dubai, it remains uncertain whether she will comply and return to Mumbai.
Meanwhile, Chanchlani and Allahbadia have been ordered to appear for questioning on February 24. While Chanchlani has maintained a low profile, Allahbadia has been notably unresponsive, with reports indicating that his phone remains switched off and his residence is unoccupied.
The controversy stems from a segment in which Allahbadia posed an ethically questionable and offensive query to a contestant: “Would you rather watch your parents have sex for the rest of your life, or would you join in once and stop it forever?” This statement immediately incited widespread public outrage, with critics condemning the show for what they perceived as an endorsement of vulgarity and moral impropriety.
Following the backlash, multiple formal complaints were filed against the program’s creators, guests, and participants. In response, the Maharashtra Cyber Cell has announced that approximately 30 to 40 individuals involved in the initial six episodes of India’s Got Latent will be summoned for official questioning.
Samay Raina, the comedian and showrunner of the series, has also come under legal scrutiny.
Although he was initially summoned to provide his statement, Raina requested an extension until March 17 due to ongoing professional commitments in Canada and the United States. However, his request was denied, with authorities insisting that he appear sooner.
Amid mounting criticism, Allahbadia issued a public apology, acknowledging a “lapse in judgment” regarding his remarks. In an effort to mitigate the controversy, Raina has also removed all episodes of the show from his YouTube channel.
As the investigation unfolds, the legal implications for those involved remain uncertain. The Maharashtra Cyber Cell has reiterated its commitment to thoroughly monitoring the case and ensuring appropriate legal measures are taken in accordance with prevailing regulations.
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