Maharashtra Cyber Cell Rejects Samay Raina’s Request for Video Call Statement in ‘India’s Got Latent’ Case
Mumbai, 17th February 2025: The Maharashtra Cyber Cell has denied comedian Samay Raina’s request to record his statement via video call in connection with the ongoing ‘India’s Got Latent’ controversy. Raina, who is currently in the United States, had requested to give his statement remotely, citing prior commitments that prevent him from returning to India before March 17.
The authorities have insisted that Raina appear in person on February 18 to record his statement. This development comes amidst a growing controversy surrounding the show ‘India’s Got Latent,’ which Raina hosted. The controversy erupted after podcaster Ranveer Allahbadia made inappropriate comments during the show, leading to formal complaints against Allahbadia, Raina, and other participants.
In response to the escalating situation, Raina had previously announced the removal of all ‘India’s Got Latent’ videos from his channel. He stated on social media, “Everything that is happening has been too much for me to handle. I have removed all India’s Got Latent videos from my channel. My only objective was to make people laugh and have a good time.”
The controversy has attracted attention from various quarters, including law enforcement agencies. The Maharashtra Cyber Department has registered an FIR against the show and summoned over 40 individuals, including Allahbadia and Raina, for questioning. Additionally, the National Commission for Women has asked several participants, including Allahbadia, Raina, and others, to appear before it on February 17 in New Delhi.
As the investigation continues, the authorities are scrutinizing all episodes of ‘India’s Got Latent’ for potentially objectionable content. The cyber cell is also reaching out to YouTube to request the deletion of episodes containing inappropriate remarks.The incident has sparked a broader debate on content regulation and responsibility in digital media. Shiv Sena MP Naresh Mhaske has called for legislation to regulate social media in light of this controversy.
