'Latent' row: Samay Raina's US-Canada tour at risk following summons
What's the story
Comedian Samay Raina and YouTuber Ranveer Allahbadia have been summoned by the Mumbai Police for questioning.
The summons comes in connection with Allahbadia aka BeerBiceps's controversial remarks, which he made on Raina's show India's Got Latent.
While the exact date for their appearance before the investigating officer is yet to be disclosed, both individuals have been asked to present their side of the story.
Mumbai Police paid a visit to Allahbadia's house on Tuesday, too.
Apology and tour
Allahbadia apologized; Raina's North America tour in jeopardy
Meanwhile, Allahbadia has publicly apologized for his "crass and indecent comment" during the show. Raina, however, has yet to respond to the controversy.
Per reports, the ongoing situation could force Raina to cancel his upcoming shows in Canada, as part of his North America tour.
He recently performed at San Jose Civic in California and is scheduled for performances in Washington DC, New Jersey, and Montreal this week.
Legal complaints
Complaints filed against Raina and Allahbadia for 'obscene remarks'
The Mumbai Police's action comes after a complaint was filed with the Mumbai Police Commissioner and the Maharashtra Women's Commission.
The complainant alleged the show used "abusive language" and made "obscene remarks about women."
The complaint also alleged the remarks were made to gain popularity and money through online broadcasts.
On Monday, another complaint was filed in Guwahati against both for promoting obscenity on India's Got Latent.
Show controversy
Controversy sparked by Allahbadia's inappropriate question
The controversy over India's Got Latent was sparked by a video of Allahbadia asking a contestant an inappropriate question.
The question was, "Would you rather watch your parents have sex every day for the rest of your life or join in once and stop it forever?"
After demands to ban the show, this particular episode was taken down from public viewing platforms.
Career overview
A look at Raina's career and 'India's Got Latent'
A Jammu and Kashmir-born comedian, Raina started his comedy career by posting videos on YouTube at 16. He rose to fame with his stint in Comicstaan 2 and his unique style of comedy.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, he switched to streaming chess on YouTube, working with top players and influencers.
In June 2024, he launched India's Got Latent—a reality show to critique untapped talent—which soon became a hit among the youth.