India’s Got Latent controversy: Mumbai Police allows comedian Samay Raina time till March 10 to record statement

The Mumbai Police have granted comedian Samay Raina time until March 10 to appear before them in connection with an investigation into podcaster Ranveer Allahbadia’s controversial remarks on the YouTube show ‘India’s Got Latent,’ PTI reported on Saturday.

Ranveer Allahbadia, widely known for his YouTube channel ‘BeerBiceps,’ found himself at the center of controversy over his comments about parents and sex on Raina’s now-deleted show. At least two FIRs have been registered against both Allahbadia and Raina—one in Assam and another in Mumbai.

According to an unidentified police official quoted by PTI, Khar police have been unable to reach Allahbadia as his phone remains switched off. Teams from both Mumbai and Assam Police previously visited his residence but found it locked.

Raina’s lawyer approached senior police officials, requesting more time as his client was currently in the United States. In response to this request, the police extended the deadline for Raina’s appearance to March 10.

Allahbadia had also sought permission from Khar police to record his statement at his residence, but his request was denied.

Ranveer Allahbadia’s Controversy

In connection with a complaint filed by a BJP functionary, Mumbai Police have recorded statements from eight individuals, including Apoorva Mukhija, Ashish Chanchalani, and Allahbadia’s manager. However, no FIR has been registered by the city police in this matter.

Meanwhile, the Maharashtra Cyber Cell has summoned around 50 individuals for questioning as part of its investigation. Among them are participants of the show. On Thursday, actor and filmmaker Raghu Ram, who was on the judges’ panel for Raina’s show, recorded his statement with the agency.

On February 10, Ranveer Allahbadia issued a public apology, acknowledging his “lack of judgement” in making the joke.

Samay Raina has since deleted all episodes of his show from his YouTube channel, where they had amassed millions of views. Addressing the situation on social media, Raina expressed that the recent developments have been overwhelming for him, while assuring full cooperation with authorities.

“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. I will fully cooperate with all agencies to ensure their inquiries are concluded fairly. Thank you,” Samay wrote.