The controversy surrounding stand-up comedian Pranit More has escalated, with the Maharashtra Home Department directing the Maharashtra Cyber Police to conduct a detailed investigation into videos available on his social media accounts and other digital platforms.
The cyber team has been tasked with examining content from his shows, viral clips and other online material linked to the ongoing row over the “Rs 370 Biryani” video.
Amid growing criticism, More issued a public apology, admitting that he made a serious mistake by failing to intervene when objectionable remarks were made during a crowd-work session at one of his shows.
He said he got carried away by the audience’s reaction and acknowledged that his inaction allowed the comments to gain wider attention.
Stating that he deserved the criticism, More appealed for another chance and accepted responsibility for providing a platform for the remarks.
The controversy has attracted attention from several authorities. The National Commission for Women (NCW) summoned More and web developer Himanshu Jangra over comments allegedly made during a Gurugram stand-up show that appeared to glorify sexual coercion and non-consensual conduct.
Maharashtra Cyber also registered an FIR against More, Jangra, MBBS student Sejal Pawar and others for allegedly publishing and circulating obscene and objectionable content online.
The case has been filed under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Information Technology Act.
Separately, KEM Hospital and Seth G.S. Medical College placed Sejal Pawar on 15 days’ forced leave following the controversy surrounding her alleged remarks during the same show.
Kunickaa backs Pranit
Actor Kunickaa Sadanand came out in support of More after his second public apology.
Commenting on his Instagram video, she described him as a “good boy” with the “right values” and argued that entertainers can sometimes be carried away during crowd-work sessions when audiences react positively.
While urging people to forgive More, Kunickaa said he should not be viewed as solely responsible for attitudes towards women that have existed across generations.
She expressed confidence that he would learn from the incident and return with more thoughtful content.
Her remarks added to the wider debate, with public opinion remaining divided over More’s conduct and the sincerity of his apologies. (Agencies)
