The National Commission for Women (NCW) has initiated suo motu proceedings following an incident during a stand-up comedy performance in Gurgaon, Haryana. A viral video captured remarks that allegedly glorified sexual coercion and non-consensual behavior towards a woman.
NCW Expresses Concern Over Viral Content
On Thursday, the commission acknowledged media reports and video footage related to the incident, where such remarks were made in a public setting. The women's rights body voiced concern about the content and the manner in which the alleged conduct was presented to an audience.
“The Commission observed that the normalisation or glorification of behaviour that undermines a woman’s consent, dignity, and bodily autonomy has far-reaching consequences for women’s safety and social attitudes towards gender-based violence,” the NCW stated.
The commission warned that such acts could influence public perceptions regarding women's safety and gender-based violence.
Haryana DGP Directed to Submit Action Report
NCW Chairperson Smt Vijaya Rahatkar has written to the Director General of Police (DGP) of Haryana, demanding “immediate, stringent, and time-bound action” in the matter. The commission has requested a detailed Action Taken Report (ATR) from the Haryana Police within seven days.
Additionally, the NCW has sought information on the status of a First Information Report (FIR) under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and other applicable laws.
Investigation into Video and Organizers' Role
The NCW has asked police to provide details about actions taken against those involved, examination and authentication of the viral video evidence, and the roles of the organizers, performers, and venue management.
The commission also requested information on measures being implemented to ensure that public entertainment platforms and digital spaces do not become venues for promoting or normalizing sexual harassment, coercion, or conduct that violates women's dignity.
Comedians Summoned for Hearing
The NCW has issued hearing notices to comedian Pranit More and Himanshu Jangra in connection with the incident. Both have been summoned to appear before the commission on June 22.
‘Consent is Non-Negotiable’: NCW
The NCW strongly condemned the incident and reiterated that consent is non-negotiable. “Any attempt to portray sexual coercion, entitlement, or disrespect towards a woman’s autonomy as humour or entertainment is unacceptable and contrary to the principles of equality, dignity, and safety guaranteed to women under the Constitution and laws of India,” the commission said.
