SC to Hear Plea Against Comedian Samay Raina Over Alleged Mockery of Disabled Individuals

The Supreme Court has taken note of a serious allegation against comedian and India’s Got Latent host Samay Raina, for allegedly mocking individuals with disabilities—specifically those with visual impairments and rare conditions like Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA).

During a hearing on Monday, a bench led by Justices Surya Kant and N Kotiswar Singh addressed a plea filed by the NGO Cure SMA Foundation of India, which raised concerns about insensitive content aired during Raina’s show. The court asked the NGO to file a writ petition, emphasizing that such a move would give the court a broader scope to act.

“This is a serious issue… File a writ petition. We will see what can be done,” the bench stated.

The Bigger Picture: Ranveer Allahbadia’s Involvement

The case is tied to ongoing proceedings against Ranveer Allahbadia—popularly known as BeerBiceps—who appeared on Raina’s show and made remarks that led to multiple FIRs across the country. The Supreme Court had earlier granted Allahbadia interim protection from arrest and had directed him to surrender his passport.

At the hearing, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta informed the court that:

• In Mumbai, the investigation is done, but the chargesheet is pending.
• In Guwahati, all accused except Apoorva Makhija have recorded their statements. She has been summoned again.

Allahbadia’s lawyer, Abhinav Chandrachud, clarified that his client had no deeper connection with other accused individuals beyond his guest appearance on the show.

NGO Pushes for Stronger Regulation

The NGO expressed concern over a lack of effective legal mechanisms to address ableist content online. It asked the court to consider drafting guidelines to prevent derogatory portrayals of people with disabilities by content creators, influencers, and media platforms.

They made it clear that the intent isn’t to ban all disability-related content—just the belittling and insensitive kind.

They also pointed out that Raina’s comments contributed to public insensitivity toward these serious medical conditions, their costly treatments, and the real struggles of those affected.

What’s Next?

• The SC will hear Allahbadia’s plea for return of his passport on April 28.
• The court has asked the Centre to work on a draft regulatory framework for online content that strikes a balance between freedom of speech and responsible expression.
• The draft, once ready, could be opened to the public for feedback before it is implemented as policy.

Earlier, Allahbadia had given an undertaking to the court, promising to maintain morality and decency on his platform. He was also allowed to continue with The Ranveer Show, as long as the content is appropriate for viewers of all ages.

Other Individuals Involved:

Aside from Raina and Allahbadia, comics Ashish Chanchlani, Jaspreet Singh, and Apoorva Makhija have also been named in connection with the Assam FIRs.