Maharashtra Cyber Cell Registers FIR Against Comedian Pranit More and Others Over Viral Content
The Maharashtra Cyber Cell has officially registered an FIR against stand-up comedian Pranit More, content creator Himanshu Jangra, Dr. Sejal Pawar, and several others, following a series of online controversies involving allegedly obscene and objectionable content.
The Core Controversies
The legal action stems from viral clips recorded during stand-up comedy shows hosted by More, which were subsequently circulated on platforms like YouTube and Instagram. Authorities allege that the content was promoted and monetized to boost engagement, despite containing remarks that violate social norms and dignity.
Key incidents fueling the investigation include:
The "Rs 370 Biryani" Row: A video clip featuring Himanshu Jangra sparked significant outrage. In the clip, Jangra made remarks suggesting an entitlement to physical intimacy in exchange for money spent on a date, which critics and officials have condemned as derogatory toward women and a trivialization of consent.
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Derogatory Remarks on Cadavers: Another viral video featured Dr. Sejal Pawar making objectionable comments regarding deceased male bodies and medical cadavers used for educational purposes. The remarks were described by officials as disrespectful to the dignity of the deceased and a violation of public decency.
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Legal Action and Ongoing Investigation
The FIR was registered at the Nodal Cyber Police Station in Mumbai under various provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Information Technology (IT) Act, 2000. Specific sections cited include:
Sections 75(1)(iv), 75(3), 294, and 353(2) of the BNS.
Section 67 of the IT Act.
Maharashtra Cyber officials have issued summons to More, Jangra, and Pawar, directing them to appear before the police to record their statements.
Broader Implications
The case has drawn attention from national bodies as well. The National Commission for Women (NCW) has taken suo motu cognizance of the viral clips, particularly those appearing to glorify sexual coercion. The Commission has summoned More and Jangra for a hearing on June 22, 2026, and has requested a time-bound investigation report from the Haryana Police.
Maharashtra Cyber has emphasized that it continues to monitor digital ecosystems to curb content that adversely affects public order and social dignity. The agency has also appealed to influencers and content creators to exercise greater responsibility in their digital output to avoid legal consequences.
As the investigation remains in its preliminary stages, no arrests have been announced, and all named individuals currently benefit from the presumption of innocence.