Why Were Pranit More And Madhur Virli Summoned By The NCW?
Pranit More and Madhur Virli appeared before India’s National Commission for Women (NCW) in Delhi on June 22, 2026, after being summoned over jokes that were alleged to be derogatory towards women and harmful to women’s dignity. The commission sought explanations from both comedians following public criticism and concerns over the content of their performances.
What Sparked The Controversy Around Pranit More?
The controversy gained attention after clips from Pranit More’s stand-up performance resurfaced online. One particular joke, widely referred to as the “₹370 biryani” remark, involved audience member Himanshu Jangra and drew criticism from social media users. Critics argued that the joke promoted disrespectful attitudes towards women and crossed the line between comedy and offensive content. As the clip spread online, calls for accountability grew, leading to wider public debate.
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Why Was Madhur Virli Also Criticised?
Around the same time, older clips of Madhur Virli resurfaced on social media. Among them was a joke containing references to “cuddle” and rape, which sparked outrage among several users online. Critics argued that such subjects should not be treated as punchlines, particularly given the sensitivity surrounding gender-based violence. The resurfaced content reignited scrutiny of Virli’s past material and prompted fresh criticism.
What Happened During The NCW Hearing?
Following the backlash, the NCW took cognisance of the matter and issued summons to both comedians. The hearing took place in Delhi on June 22, where Pranit More and Madhur Virli appeared before the commission. The NCW reportedly sought their explanation regarding the content of the jokes and their potential impact on public discourse. The appearance marked the latest development in the controversy surrounding both comedians.
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Did Madhur Virli Respond To The Criticism?
According to reports, Madhur Virli had previously apologised for some of the controversial material that resurfaced online. Despite the apology, criticism continued, with many social media users arguing that creators and public figures should remain accountable for content that may be viewed as offensive or insensitive.
What Larger Debate Has The Incident Sparked?
The controversy has reignited discussions around the limits of comedy, freedom of expression, and the responsibilities of performers when addressing sensitive topics. Supporters of stricter accountability argue that jokes involving women, consent, or sexual violence can reinforce harmful attitudes. Others have raised concerns about creative freedom and the extent to which comedians should be held responsible for material performed on stage. The incident also highlights how older content can resurface years later, leading to renewed scrutiny in the digital age.