The Supreme Court has granted permission to podcaster Ranveer Allahbadia, popularly known as BeerBiceps, to resume his podcast, “The Ranveer Show”, with strict conditions ensuring content remains suitable for all age groups. The decision came after a bench of Justices Surya Kant and N Kotiswar Singh considered Allahbadia’s submission that the podcast was his sole source of livelihood, employing nearly 280 individuals.
The court modified its February 18 order, which had barred Allahbadia from airing any content on YouTube or other digital platforms. However, it required him to furnish an undertaking to uphold decency and morality in his shows. The bench took exception to articles criticizing the earlier ban, asserting that fundamental rights are not absolute and come with duties. Justice Surya Kant remarked, “We know how to handle those who misuse free speech.”
Allahbadia faces multiple FIRs over his controversial remarks on Samay Raina’s YouTube show, “India’s Got Latent”, which authorities deemed vulgar and perverse. While the SC extended interim protection from arrest, it restricted him from discussing sub-judice matters on his podcast. His request for travel abroad will only be considered upon full cooperation with the Guwahati investigation.
During the hearing, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta urged the court to maintain restrictions, stating, “Let him remain silent for some time.” The SC also criticized another accused who fled to Canada and made public remarks about the case. The court warned, “These youngsters think they are oversmart. We hope they behave responsibly, or we know how to deal with them.”
The bench expanded the scope of the case, directing the Centre to draft a social media content regulation framework that balances free speech with moral responsibility under Article 19(4). The draft will be open for public consultation before any legislative or judicial intervention.
Allahbadia’s plea was heard alongside YouTuber Ashish Chanchlani’s request to club multiple FIRs related to the controversy. On February 18, the SC had slammed Allahbadia’s remarks as “vulgar”, stating that his “dirty mind” brought shame to society. Alongside Allahbadia and Samay Raina, comics Chanchlani, Jaspreet Singh, and Apoorva Makhija are also named in the Assam FIR.
