Prominent YouTuber and podcaster Ranveer Allahbadia, known online as "BeerBiceps," was questioned by Maharashtra Cyber officials for two hours on Monday amidst controversy over controversial remarks made during his appearance on comedian Samay Raina's show, 'India's Got Latent.'
According to sources, Allahbadia admitted his mistake, explaining that his participation was as a favor to his friend, Raina, and that he did not receive payment for the appearance.
The 31-year-old missed previous summons but eventually appeared at the cyber headquarters in Navi Mumbai.
Allahbadia stated that it's common for YouTubers to maintain friendly relations and make guest appearances on each other's shows.
The controversy began after Allahbadia posed an inappropriate question to a contestant regarding their parents during an episode that featured other creators like Ashish Chanchlani, Jaspreet Singh, and Apoorva Mukhija ("The Rebel Kid" on Instagram).
Facing significant backlash for his comment, Allahbadia issued an apology via a video statement, acknowledging that his attempt at humor was "not just inappropriate, it was not even funny."
Legal repercussions followed, with multiple complaints filed against him. The Supreme Court intervened by granting Allahbadia interim protection from arrest, while condemning his remarks as "vulgar" and indicative of a "dirty mind." The court mandated that Allahbadia cooperate with the investigation and surrender his passport to Thane police to prevent international travel without prior approval.
The Maharashtra cyber cell has widened its probe, summoning over 50 individuals linked to the show, including guests, judges, influencers, and comedians. Samay Raina, who has since removed all episodes of the show from YouTube, has also been summoned to appear before the cyber officials at the earliest opportunity.