The Maharashtra Cyber police have registered a case against stand-up comedian Pranit More, web developer Himanshu Jangra, and others for allegedly circulating obscene and objectionable content on social media, as reported by news agency PTI. The accused have been summoned for questioning, an official confirmed on Thursday.
Controversy Over Comedy Show Remarks
More and Jangra are at the center of a controversy following remarks made during a comedy show in Gurgaon that allegedly glorified coercion and non-consensual conduct toward a woman. The case was registered at the Nodal Cyber Police Station after a preliminary investigation into viral video clips from the show hosted by More. The videos contained offensive remarks about women, consent, and deceased persons, violating public decency, the official stated.
Derogatory Comments on Consent and Dignity
One viral clip featured Jangra suggesting an entitlement to physical intimacy in exchange for money spent during a date, portraying women in a derogatory manner and trivializing consent. Another clip showed Dr. Sejal Pawar making derogatory comments about medical cadavers and deceased male bodies used for educational purposes, which authorities flagged as highly disrespectful to the dignity of the deceased.
Officials noted that the controversial clips were shared on platforms like YouTube and Instagram to boost viewership. The case has been registered under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Information Technology Act against More, Jangra, Pawar, and other unidentified individuals. Summons have been issued to all three, directing them to appear before Maharashtra Cyber to record their statements.
Advisory and Legal Warnings
Maharashtra Cyber has issued an advisory urging content creators, digital influencers, and internet users to comply with legal frameworks while producing online content. Police have warned citizens against sharing the videos, stating that downloading or circulating obscene material could attract strict legal action under IT and criminal laws.
Background of the Incident
The controversy began when Jangra recounted an incident from a date where he spent Rs 370 on a plate of chicken biryani. When the woman asked to be dropped home, he demanded sexual favors in return for the money spent. More was seen laughing at the remark. Following a backlash on social media, More, Jangra, and Pawar issued apologies.
