India’s Maharashtra cyber police registered a case against stand-up comedian Pranit More, web developer Himanshu Jangra, and others for distributing content on social media described by authorities as “obscene and objectionable.” Officials confirmed on Thursday that summons have been issued for an inquiry.
The development follows a public controversy surrounding remarks made during a comedy show in Gurugram, India. The material allegedly glorified coercion and non-consensual conduct towards a woman.
According to a cyber police official, the case was filed at the Cyber Police Station after a preliminary investigation into viral video clips from the show hosted by More. The official stated that the videos contained offensive remarks concerning women, consent, and deceased individuals, which violated public decency.
Detailing the specific content, the official noted that one viral clip featured remarks by Himanshu Jangra suggesting an entitlement to physical intimacy based on money spent during a date. The official stated this segment “portrayed women in a derogatory manner and trivialised consent”.
Jangra recounted a date at the show in which he spent Rs 370 on a plate of chicken biryani. After the woman requested a ride home, Jangra stated he sought sexual favors in exchange for the money spent on the food. Video clips showed More laughing at the remark.
A separate clip from the same show featured Dr Sejal Pawar passing comments regarding medical cadavers and deceased male bodies used for educational purposes. Authorities flagged the remarks as highly disrespectful to the dignity of the deceased.
Police stated that the controversial clips were published on YouTube and Instagram to drive up viewership. The case names More, Jangra, Pawar, and other unidentified individuals under sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Information Technology Act.
Following social media backlash, both More and Jangra issued apologies, while Jangra also deactivated his Instagram account.
Maharashtra Cyber issued an advisory warning to content creators, digital influencers, and internet users to stay within legal frameworks. The agency added that downloading or disseminating the controversial material could lead to strict legal action under criminal and IT laws.
