YouTube has taken down an episode of India’s Got Talent featuring podcaster Ranveer Allahbadia following a notice from the Information and Broadcasting Ministry. The removal comes after widespread criticism over a crass remark made by Allahbadia during the show, which sparked controversy and led to legal action.
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) also intervened, requesting the video’s removal due to concerns about obscenity and its societal impact. NHRC member Priyank Kanoongo confirmed that the commission received multiple complaints about the episode.
Allahbadia, also known as BeerBiceps, faced intense backlash after a viral clip from the show showed him making an inappropriate comment to a contestant. The remark was widely condemned on social media, with critics raising alarms over the ease with which mature content is accessible to younger audiences.
Legal troubles have also mounted for the 31-year-old podcaster, who has 10.5 million YouTube subscribers and 4.5 million Instagram followers. A police case has been filed against him in Assam, and multiple complaints have been registered in Mumbai. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma confirmed that charges under various sections, including obscenity, have been pressed against Allahbadia and others involved in the episode.
In response to the backlash, Allahbadia issued a public apology, admitting that his comment was not only inappropriate but also not funny. “Comedy is not my forte. I am just here to say sorry,” he said in a video message. He also acknowledged his lapse in judgment and assured viewers that he takes his platform’s influence seriously.
The NHRC has urged YouTube to review and regulate such content to prevent the spread of offensive material and ensure adherence to ethical standards.
