YouTube Sensations Face Legal Heat: India's Cyber Crackdown

The Maharashtra Cyber Cell summons comedian Samay Raina and other YouTubers for alleged obscene content. Raina, currently in the US, vows cooperation. Assam Police target YouTubers, including Ashish Chanchlani and Ranveer Allahbadia, as part of an ongoing investigation into public obscenity, amid heightened scrutiny over social media content.

The Maharashtra Cyber Cell has intensified its probe into alleged obscene material on the YouTube show 'India's Got Latent,' issuing a second summons to comedian Samay Raina. Scheduled for a February 17 appearance, Raina's lawyer revealed the comedian is currently in the United States and will return in mid-March.

In a parallel crackdown, Assam Police have summoned multiple YouTubers, including Ashish Chanchlani and Ranveer Allahbadia, over allegations of promoting obscenity on public platforms. Guwahati resident Alok Boruah's complaint accuses them of engaging in explicit, morally questionable discussions, leading to ongoing police investigations.

The investigation is being conducted under various legal frameworks, including the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, IT Act, and Indecent Representation of Women Act. Samay Raina, addressing the controversy, confirmed compliance with authorities, while Ranveer Allahbadia expressed regret over past comments, calling it a lapse in judgment.

(With inputs from agencies.)