India’s Got Latent Show: SC Directs Centre To Consider Regulating ‘Obscene Content’ On YouTube

India's Got Latent

The Supreme Court on Tuesday urged the Centre to consider regulating obscene content on YouTube and other social media platforms.

The bench, comprising Justices Surya Kant and N. Kotiswar Singh, expressed concerns over the misuse of these platforms by what they referred to as “so-called YouTube channels.”

Court emphasized that, it would not allow a “vacuum” to remain in the regulation of such content, warning that it was being exploited irresponsibly.

During the proceedings, the bench asked Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati, who was present in the courtroom for another matter, to consult with the Attorney General and Solicitor General for assistance.

Justice Kant remarked, “There was this case of so-called YouTubers… We would like you (the government) to do something. If the government is willing to take action, we are happy; otherwise, we will not leave this vacuum and barren area the way so-called YouTube channels are misusing it.”

The Justices also stressed the importance and sensitivity of the issue, with Justice Kant urging Bhati to ensure that the Attorney General and Solicitor General attend the next hearing.

The Supreme Court’s remarks were triggered by a case involving YouTuber and podcaster Ranveer Allahabadia, who faced criticism for inappropriate comments made during a guest appearance on the show India’s Got Latent. Allahabadia had filed a plea seeking to club multiple FIRs registered against him and to obtain interim relief from arrest.

While hearing his plea, the bench sharply criticized Allahabadia’s actions, stating, “There is something very dirty in his mind, which has been vomited by him in the program.” The Court added that his behavior would bring shame to his parents and to society as a whole.

The top court’s comments reflect growing concerns about the growing influence of social media personalities and the need for stricter regulations to curb harmful content.