The Supreme Court has rejected YouTuber and podcaster Ranveer Allahbadia’s plea to return his passport. Ranveer had filed a petition to merge multiple FIRs registered against him in different places.
Ranveer’s lawyer, Abhinav Chandrachud, argued that his client had given an undertaking and was cooperating with the investigation. He requested the court to modify the condition of surrendering his passport. Abhinav said this was affecting Ranveer’s work and livelihood, as he needs to travel abroad to interview people, which often requires multiple meetings.
Supreme Court denies passport return, cites potential impact on investigation
The Supreme Court said that if Ranveer travels abroad, it could impact the investigation. The court then asked Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the governments of Maharashtra and Assam, how long the investigation would take. Tushar Mehta replied that no direction had been given, but the investigation could be completed in two weeks.
Next hearing on Ranveer’s passport in two weeks
The Supreme Court will hear Ranveer’s petition regarding his passport in! two weeks. Justice Surya Kant said that allowing Ranveer to travel could affect the investigation, so his passport would not be returned.
Supreme Court sets condition for Ranveer’s show
Notably, on March 3, the Supreme Court had directed the central government to draft a regulatory mechanism for social media content. During the hearing of Ranveer’s case, the court expanded its scope. The court allowed Ranveer to broadcast his show, “The Ranveer Show,” but set a condition that the show must adhere to standards of morality and decency and be suitable for all age groups.