SC orders Samay Raina, other comedians to raise funds for specially-abled

The Supreme Court on Wednesday, November 26, issued significant directions to comedian and YouTuber Samay Raina and three other comedians, instructing them to host events featuring the success stories of specially-abled persons on their platforms. The Court said the money raised through these shows must be used for the timely and effective treatment of persons with disabilities.

Chief Justice of India Surya Kant said the Court was placing a "social burden, not a penal burden" on the comedians. "We hope and expect that a few memorable events will take place before the next hearing. You are all well-placed in society. If you have become too popular, then share that with others," he remarked.

The directions were issued on a plea filed by Cure SMA Foundation, which sought action against comedians for making insensitive remarks about people suffering from disabilities.

During the hearing on matters related to India’s Got Latent and objectionable jokes about disability that took place earlier this



year, the Supreme Court examined concerns around vulgar and insensitive digital content.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta said the government was not opposing free speech, but emphasised that the issue was not just about obscenity but also about perversity-content that is distorted or degrading. He pointed out that user-generated content has several gaps: "Freedom of speech is invaluable, but perversity cannot be permitted."

CJI Surya Kant questioned the absence of accountability on digital platforms. He said, "If I start a channel, am I not accountable to anyone? Someone has to be answerable. Any adult content must carry proper warnings. Not self-styled warnings, but ones issued by an independent, autonomous body—free from both muscle power and government influence." The CJI further added that the Court does not want to become a monitoring authority: "We will be the last people to suggest monitoring… but if a mechanism already exists, why are such cases still coming every day? Children and ordinary viewers need protection."