NCW summons Elvish Yadav for racist comments against Chum Darang
What's the story
The National Commission for Women (NCW) has summoned popular YouTuber Elvish Yadav over his derogatory and racist comments about Bigg Boss 18 finalist-actor Chum Darang. The commission has summoned Yadav for an in-person appearance on February 17 at noon. The row began after Yadav made fun of Darang's name and ethnicity on his podcast, while also belittling her role in Sanjay Leela Bhansali's film Gangubai Kathiawadi.
Public reaction
Yadav's comments sparked outrage on social media
Yadav's comments on Darang were widely criticized on social media. He had said, "Karan Veer (Mehra, BB 18 winner) must have definitely had COVID because who would like Chum, bro? Who has such bad taste? And even Chum's name itself is vulgar... Her name is Chum, and she worked in Gangubai Kathiawadi." The Arunachal Pradesh State Commission for Women (APSCW) also strongly condemned his "derogatory and racist" comments.
Legal intervention
APSCW called for strict action against Yadav
In a letter to the NCW chief, APSCW chairperson Kenjum Pakam stated Yadang's remarks were not just insulting to Darang but also offensive to women across Northeast India. The commission urged authorities to take strict action against Yadav as per the law. Meanwhile, Darang responded on social media saying, "Disrespecting someone's identity and name is not 'fun.' Mocking someone's achievements is not 'banter.'"
Apology issued
Yadav removed offensive remarks and apologized
After the backlash, the Bigg Boss OTT 2 winner spoke about the controversy on his vlog. He said, "So, I checked to see if I had said any racist remarks. I had said something about Chum. I don't care whether I said it or not, I removed it." "I don't want any negativity. If anyone felt bad because of what I said, then brother, I have removed that part."
Defense statement
Mehra also reacted to Yadav's comments
Indirectly referring to Yadav's controversial remarks, Mehra reacted with a sense of calm. He told TellyChakkar, "People keep saying something or the other, their house is running, let it run." "He should understand that media has made everything, he should not fly too much in the air. The ground is more fun." "He's a young boy and I am sure he will learn when he gets a few knocks."