NHRC Takes Action Against Ranbir Kapoor and Netflix

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has directed the Mumbai Police Commissioner to initiate legal action against actor Ranbir Kapoor, producers of the web series "Ba***ds of Bollywood," and Netflix for allegedly promoting banned e-cigarettes. The NHRC took cognizance of a complaint filed by Vinay Joshi of the Legal Rights Observatory, who alleged that the show's seventh episode featured Ranbir Kapoor using a prohibited e-cigarette on screen without any warning or disclaimer.

The NHRC observed that the allegations, if true, amount to a prima facie violation of Sections 4 and 7 of the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act, 2019. Section 4 prohibits the storage, use, and promotion of e-cigarettes in any form, while Section 7 prescribes penalties for individuals and companies involved in advertising or promoting such banned products. The NHRC has directed the Union Ministry of Information & Broadcasting to take appropriate action and ensure that such content is immediately prohibited.

The NHRC has also asked the Commissioner of Police, Mumbai, to investigate the matter and take strict legal action, including registration of FIRs, against Ranbir Kapoor, the producers, the production company, and Netflix for their role in promoting the banned product. The apex human rights body has called for an Action Taken Report (ATR) from all authorities within two weeks.

The controversy surrounding "Ba***ds of Bollywood" highlights the need for stricter content regulation on OTT platforms. The show, directed by Aryan Khan and produced by Red Chillies Entertainment, features a star-studded cast, including Lakshya, Raghav Juyal, and Sahher Bambba, with cameo appearances by Bollywood heavyweights like Shah Rukh Khan, Ranveer Singh, and Aamir Khan.