February 18, 2025: The Supreme Court of India has raised concerns about the growing prevalence of obscene content on YouTube, urging the government to take immediate action to regulate such material. The court emphasized that YouTubers were exploiting the absence of regulation on online platforms, with significant consequences for public discourse.

The observations came after the court heard a plea filed by popular YouTuber Ranveer Allahbadia, also known as 'BeerBiceps,' who sought the clubbing of multiple FIRs filed against him. These cases stemmed from a controversial joke made by Allahbadia during a 2023 episode of comedian Samay Raina’s 'India's Got Latent' show, which was streamed on YouTube. The comment was deemed offensive by many, leading to FIRs in both Mumbai and Assam.

A bench of Justices Surya Kant and N Kotiswar Singh issued a notice to the Centre, stating that they would be "very happy" if the government was planning to regulate online content. The bench has requested assistance from Attorney General R Venkataramani and Solicitor General Tushar Mehta to address the regulatory void regarding vulgar content on online platforms. The two top officials have been directed to be present at the next hearing.

In a stern rebuke, the Supreme Court expressed its disapproval of Allahbadia's remarks, calling them a reflection of a "perverted mind." Justice Kant emphasized the gravity of the situation, saying, "If this is not obscene, then what is? You can show your vulgarity anytime and show depravity." He also pointed out that despite the two FIRs, Allahbadia’s defense should not be weakened by the number of cases.

The court’s intervention marks a significant step in the ongoing debate over the regulation of online content, with increasing calls for stricter oversight of platforms like YouTube. The next hearing will see further discussions on measures to curb the spread of obscene material online.