Introduction : Gauhati High Court Grants Anticipatory Bail Regarding Obscenity Case
The Gauhati High Court on Friday granted anticipatory bail to YouTuber Ashish Chanchlani. This made his relief absolute in an obscenity case related to alleged obscene and controversial comments in an episode of India’s Got Latent.
Background of the Case
Chanchlani had earlier received interim anticipatory bail on February 18. This is with a condition to appear before the Investigating Officer within ten days. Meanwhile, he has also moved the Supreme Court seeking quashing or clubbing of multiple FIRs filed against him. On February 21, the Supreme Court issued a notice regarding his plea.
The FIR, registered by Assam Police on February 12, includes charges under:
Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) Sections 79, 95, 294, and 296 (related to obscenity and indecency).
Section 67 of the IT Act, 2000 (electronic transmission of obscene material).
Cinematograph Act, 1952 & Indecent Representation of Women (Prohibition) Act, 1986.
The complaint, filed by Alok Boruah, alleges that Chanchlani, along with Jaspreet Singh, Apoorva Mukhija, Ranveer Allahbadia, Samay Raina, and others, engaged in sexually explicit and vulgar discussions on the show.
Chanchlani’s Defense
Senior Advocate Diganta Das, along with a team of legal representatives, argued that Chanchlani is innocent. They were claiming that:
The alleged remarks were made by guest panellist Ranveer Allahbadia, not Chanchlani.
Chanchlani had no role in editing or post-production of the episode.
He did not endorse or support any obscene remarks.
Related Supreme Court Ruling on Ranveer Allahbadia
In a separate ruling on March 3, the Supreme Court lifted restrictions on YouTuber Ranveer Allahbadia, allowing him to resume his show, The Ranveer Show. However, he must ensure content maintains decency and morality standards suitable for all age groups.
This case has sparked debate over content regulation on digital platforms and the legal responsibilities of content creators.
