YouTube has removed the controversial episode of ‘India’s Got Latent‘ featuring podcaster Ranveer Allahbadia, following directives from the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) and the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.
In a statement, a YouTube spokesperson said it reviews government removal requests when notified through the correct legal processes, and also reviews content for violations of its Community Guidelines. “And, where appropriate, we restrict or remove content in keeping with local laws and our Terms of Service after a thorough review. All of these requests are tracked and included in our Transparency Report,” the spokesperson added.
It added that after a thorough review, the flagged video was blocked.
The NHRC had previously instructed YouTube to take down the episode, citing violations of various legal provisions, including the Bhartiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS), the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, and the Information Technology (IT) Act.
In response, YouTube stated that it reviews government removal requests when notified through the correct legal processes and also reviews content for violations of its Community Guidelines. The platform added that it restricts or removes content in accordance with local laws and its Terms of Service after a thorough review.
Following the incident, Assam Police registered an FIR against Allahbadia and four other social media influencers for promoting obscenity and engaging in sexually explicit discussions on the show.
The controversy has sparked widespread criticism from celebrities and public figures, leading to increased scrutiny of online content and its regulation.
In the wake of the incident, singer B Praak canceled his appearance on Allahbadia’s podcast, expressing disapproval of the remarks made on the show.
Allahbadia has issued a public apology, acknowledging the inappropriateness of his comments and expressing regret for his lapse in judgment.
