Mon Feb 17 08:00:19 UTC 2025: ## YouTuber Samay Raina Denied Video-Conference Statement in ‘India’s Got Latent’ Controversy
**Mumbai, India –** Comedian and YouTuber Samay Raina’s request to give his statement remotely via video conference in the ongoing “India’s Got Latent” controversy has been denied by the Maharashtra Cyber Cell. Raina, currently in the US, cited prior commitments preventing his return to India before March 17th. However, the Cyber Cell insists on an in-person statement on February 18th.
The controversy stems from comments made by podcaster Ranveer Allahbadia during the show, prompting a widespread backlash and formal complaints against Allahbadia, Raina, social media influencer Apoorva Makhija, and the show’s organizers. Multiple FIRs have been filed across India, including in Maharashtra and Assam. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma confirmed an FIR against several YouTubers and influencers, including Raina, for allegedly promoting obscenity.
Raina has since removed all related videos from his channel and publicly stated his cooperation with authorities, claiming his intention was solely to entertain. Meanwhile, Allahbadia separately approached the Supreme Court seeking to consolidate the multiple FIRs filed against him nationwide. The court, however, declined an urgent hearing request.
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