'Latent' controversy—Samay granted extension till March 10 to record statement
What's the story
Comedian Samay Raina has been given an extension by the Mumbai Police to record his statement in the ongoing probe into controversial remarks made on his show India's Got Latent, reported PTI. The extension, valid till March 10, was sought by Raina's lawyer since the comedian is currently in the US. Raina is expected back from the US by the third week of March.
Investigation hurdles
Meanwhile, police have failed to contact co-accused Allahbadia
Meanwhile, the Khar Police have also failed to get in touch with podcaster Ranveer Allahbadia, who is also caught in the raging controversy. A police official said that they have been unable to get in touch with him as his phone is switched off. Previous visits by Mumbai and Assam Police teams to his residence found it locked. Despite the hurdles, the investigation continues with statements of eight people already recorded by Mumbai Police.
Controversy details
'India's Got Latent' controversy and public apologies
The controversy over India's Got Latent was ignited by Allahbadia's controversial joke on parental sex. This resulted in at least two FIRs being lodged against him and Raina, one in Assam and the other in Mumbai. Facing the heat, Allahbadia tendered a public apology on February 10, admitting his "lack of judgment." Subsequently, Raina deleted all episodes of his show and said recent events have been overwhelming for him.
Investigation progress
Cyber Cell's involvement and YouTube's action
The Maharashtra Cyber Cell has summoned around 50 people, including participants of the show, to record their statements. Actor Raghu Ram, a judge on Raina's show, has already recorded his statement with the agency. The State Cyber Cell also issued notices to around 40 people involved in filming 18 episodes of India's Got Latent and asked YouTube to take down all episodes from its platform.