The National Commission for Women (NCW) has written to Haryana Director General of Police Ajay Singhal regarding a viral video from a stand-up comedy show in Gurugram. The video allegedly contains remarks that glorify sexual coercion and non-consensual conduct towards a woman, which were met with applause.
NCW Expresses Serious Concern
The Commission has expressed serious concern over the content of the viral video and the manner in which the alleged conduct was trivialised and presented as entertainment before a public audience. The women's rights body stated that 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.
Summons Issued to Comedians
The NCW has summoned comedians Pranit More and Himanshu Jangra, who made the reported derogatory comments. The duo has been directed to appear before the panel on June 22. The Commission has also called for a detailed Action Taken Report (ATR) within seven days.
Details Sought from Police
The NCW has sought details regarding the status of registration of an FIR under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and other applicable laws. It also seeks information on action taken against the individuals involved, examination and authentication of the viral video evidence, and the role of the organisers, performers, and venue management in the incident.
Measures to Prevent Future Incidents
Further, the Commission has sought information on measures proposed by the State Police to ensure that public entertainment platforms and digital spaces do not become vehicles for promoting, encouraging, or normalising sexual harassment, coercion, or conduct that violates the dignity of women.
