The Supreme Court on Monday, August 25, pulled up several social media influencers, including YouTuber Ranveer Allahbadia and comedian Samay Raina, for making derogatory remarks against persons with disabilities during a recent show.
The bench observed that such conduct cannot be shielded under the right to free speech, particularly when it is linked to commercial content. The court directed the influencers to issue public apologies and submit affidavits outlining steps they would take to promote awareness and sensitivity towards disability rights.
The apex court also hinted at imposing financial penalties if the apologies were not issued promptly. It further asked the Centre to consider framing guidelines to regulate online content mocking marginalized communities.
The case stems from public outrage over the program India’s Got Latent, where clips of jokes targeting persons with disabilities had gone viral, sparking widespread criticism.
