Lucknow, India – Stand-up comedian Anubhav Singh Bassi’s scheduled shows in Lucknow have been canceled following objections raised by the Uttar Pradesh State Women’s Commission.
The commission cited concerns over “indecent language” and “undignified remarks” against women in his past performances, leading to a divided reaction online.
Shows Canceled After Women’s Commission Complaint
The controversy began with a letter from Uttar Pradesh State Women’s Commission Vice Chairperson Aparna Yadav to DGP Prashant Kumar, expressing concerns about Bassi’s past performances.
Yadav pointed out the use of “indecent language” and “undignified remarks,” especially targeting women, in his content available on social media platforms like YouTube.
Police Deny Permission
Following the complaint, local police denied the necessary No Objection Certificate (NOC) for Bassi’s shows, scheduled for February 17 at the Indira Gandhi Pratishthan in Vibhuti Khand.
Assistant Commissioner of Police (Vibhuti Khand), Radharaman Singh, confirmed the decision, citing potential law and order concerns.
The cancellation has sparked a mixed reaction online, with some criticizing the decision as an infringement on artistic freedom, while others support the move, citing the need to curb inappropriate content.
Supporters of Bassi
Many users on platforms like Reddit and X (formerly Twitter) expressed disappointment, arguing that the move stifles artistic freedom.
Some believe that this incident could negatively impact genuine comedians who avoid crossing the line.
“Because of one person, now others will suffer. Genuine comedians who don’t cross the line will also get punished,” one user commented.
Supporters of the Cancellation
However, some netizens supported the decision, stating that jokes featuring inappropriate language should be restricted.
“It’s time such jokes be banned,” one user posted.
Connection to Ranveer Allahbadia Controversy
This incident comes in the wake of a recent controversy involving Ranveer Allahbadia, who faced backlash for an inappropriate joke on Samay Raina’s India’s Got Latent show.
The fallout from Allahbadia’s comments, along with those of fellow influencers, led to legal complaints and police investigations.
Aparna Yadav referenced the recent controversy in her letter, stating, “I do not believe that hurling abuses at mothers and sisters is necessary to make people laugh”.
This suggests that the Allahbadia controversy may have influenced the Women’s Commission’s decision to scrutinize Bassi’s content.
As of now, Anubhav Singh Bassi has not publicly commented on the cancellations.
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Conclusion: Balancing Artistic Freedom and Social Responsibility
The cancellation of Anubhav Singh Bassi’s shows raises important questions about the balance between artistic freedom and social responsibility.
While some argue that comedy should not be censored, others emphasize the need to protect women from inappropriate and disrespectful content.
As discussions continue online, it remains to be seen how this incident will impact the future of comedy performances in India.
