Beyond Apologies: Why Social Media Needs Stronger Accountability

In the digital age, where social media influencers wield immense influence, the line between freedom of expression and social responsibility is increasingly blurred. Recent controversies surrounding Indian content creators have reignited the debate on accountability in online spaces. A prime example is the uproar over offensive remarks made at ‘India’s Got Latent’, a members-only YouTube show allegedly notorious for pushing the boundaries of acceptable discourse. Figures like Samay Raina, the show’s creator, and digital personalities such as Apoorva Mukhija, Jaspreet Singh, Ashish Chanchlani, and Urfi Javed for defending Rqanveer, have come under fire for their roles in content that has sparked legal complaints and widespread public outrage. This raises a crucial question—should influencers face stricter scrutiny when their words disrupt public sentiment?

The Problem with ‘Inspirational’ Creators

Social media is filled with creators who claim to ‘inspire and educate’, but recent events have exposed a stark contrast between online personas and real-world actions. A case in point is Ranveer Allahbadia, a popular digital content creator who recently made remarks that were widely condemned as insensitive and inappropriate. His apology has done little to quell public anger, highlighting the need for genuine accountability rather than damage control.

Apologies Cannot Undo the Damage

Allahbadia’s apology video attempted to salvage his reputation, but his own words betray the insincerity of his response. He admitted, "Comedy is not my forte," but his remark was not comedy—it was offensive. He acknowledged, "My comment was not appropriate; it wasn't even funny," but that is an understatement. His statement not only lacked humour but also revealed a deeper issue: a failure to grasp the weight of his words.

In the digital era, apologies alone cannot erase the impact of irresponsible speech. The damage is done, and public figures must be held accountable for their statements. Social media is not a lawless space, and creators cannot continue to exploit their platforms without facing consequences.

Legal Scrutiny and Accountability Must Be Strengthened

This is not just a matter of public sentiment; legal scrutiny is imperative. Complaints have already been filed against Allahbadia in Assam and Maharashtra, but this should be the beginning of a broader push for accountability. Given the global reach of digital platforms, legal frameworks should be expanded to ensure that reckless speech—no matter how influential the individual—has real consequences.

A global approach is necessary because social media transcends borders. If influencers can use their platforms to impact millions worldwide, accountability should also extend beyond national limits. The need for an international framework to regulate digital creators has never been clearer.

The Disruptor of the Year Controversy

Adding to the controversy is the fact that the Government of India recently awarded Allahbadia the 'Disruptor of the Year' title at the National Creators Award. This honour, meant to celebrate excellence in digital content, now stands tarnished. While awards cannot predict future behaviour, this incident raises an important question: Should a clear code of conduct be established for awardees to prevent national honours from being associated with individuals who later bring disrepute?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s administration introduced these awards with noble intent, but this episode should prompt a reassessment. To maintain the award’s credibility, revoking the title should be seriously considered. Failing to act would send a dangerous message—that influencers can make irresponsible remarks without repercussions and still be recognised at the highest levels.

The Silence of the Audience: Complicity in Controversy

Equally troubling is the reaction of those present when Allahbadia made his remarks. Reports suggest that around 30 people were in attendance, yet there was no immediate opposition. Instead, some laughed along. Their silence is complicity.

So, this incident is not just about one individual—it reflects a larger issue in digital culture. When audiences passively accept problematic content, they enable creators to continue crossing ethical lines. Those who facilitate and encourage such behaviour—whether through viewership, participation, or silence—must also be held accountable.

India’s Free Speech is Not a Licence for Irresponsibility

India has long been known for its tolerance and diverse opinions. However, this incident raises a crucial question—has India become too lenient in the name of free speech? Similar remarks in countries like China, Saudi Arabia, or Afghanistan would have led to immediate consequences. While India values democracy and expression, there must be a distinction between free speech and socially harmful speech.

Striking a balance is essential. This is not about restricting opinions but about enforcing responsibility. If existing laws do not ensure this, perhaps it is time for stronger measures to regulate digital discourse.

The Bigger Problem: Digital Entertainment’s Ethical Void

Allahbadia’s controversy is just one example of a growing issue in India’s digital entertainment space. Shows like ‘India’s Got Latent’ have repeatedly faced criticism for content that thrives on provocation and insensitivity. Figures like Jaspreet Singh, Ashish Chanchlanie, Apoorva Mukhija (‘Kaleshi Aurat’), Deepak Kalal, Rakhi Sawant, and others have similarly leveraged shock value to stay relevant.

One key figure who must also be questioned is Samay Raina, the creator of ‘India’s Got Latent.’ As a showrunner, he is responsible for curating content that reaches mass audiences. Similarly responsible are its producers, Tushar Poojari and Saurabh Bothra. No digital content is published without approval from its creators and hosting platforms. If Allahbadia is being scrutinised, then those responsible for fostering a culture of irresponsible content must also be held to account. Along with him, action needs to be taken against the show's producers, Poojari and Bothra. Reportedly, the National Commission for Women (NCW), has already expressed its strong concerns on 'India's Got Latent' participants' derogatory comments. NCW has taken serious notes of their comments.?

The larger issue at hand is the normalisation of sensationalism in the name of entertainment. Social media has enabled creators to push boundaries without oversight. If ethical responsibility is not reinforced, such incidents will only continue.

Audience Power: Unfollowing as Protest

Ultimately, the power to demand accountability lies with the public. Just as people elevate content creators to fame, they can also withdraw their support when these influencers breach ethical boundaries.

These digital creators, when they begin, earn our love and followers drop by drop—boond by boond. At that stage, they remain cautious about public sentiment, mindful not to offend, and aware that losing even a handful of followers could hurt their growth. But once they reach a certain pinnacle, secure in their dominance, some begin to show their true colours, forgetting the very people who put them there.

Now, it is time to remind them that the love, affection, and respect earned drop by drop can be lost in an instant, like water draining from a broken reservoir. Let us prove that the saying, boond se gayi woh haud se nahin aati, can be turned on its head this time.

The most effective way to send a message is through disengagement—unfollowing, unsubscribing, and refusing to amplify voices that thrive on provocation and insensitivity. If a content creator repeatedly crosses ethical lines, they must face social consequences. A collective movement to reject irresponsible digital content will serve as a warning to all current and future influencers: India will no longer tolerate recklessness in the name of entertainment.

Let unfollowing be faster than following—a clear indicator that public trust must be earned, not exploited.