New Delhi . Maharashtra Cyber Cell has summoned standup comedians Harsh Gujral and Madhur Virli for questioning in a case related to the alleged use of obscene and objectionable language. Both have been asked to appear for investigation on October 19, 2026. This action has been taken after receiving a complaint from a woman, in which it has been alleged that both of them had used objectionable language during their comedy show.
Based on the complaint, the cyber cell has started investigating the matter. However, it is not yet clear which particular joke, video or standup performance is referred to in the complaint. During the investigation, the relevant material and circumstances related to the allegations made in the complaint can be investigated. At present, both the comedians have been called for questioning. Issuance of summons does not mean proving of allegations.
This development has come at a time when cases of standup comedy and content being broadcast on digital platforms have been in the news for controversies and legal investigations. There have been several objections raised regarding the language used in comedians' shows, comments on sensitive topics and videos shared online. Maharashtra Cyber Cell has already taken action in cases related to alleged objectionable comedy content.
In February 2025, there was a big controversy over comments made by comedian Samay Raina in an episode of his YouTube show 'India's Got Latent'. In this case, there was a legal investigation into the content of the show and there was criticism regarding the related comments. Apart from this, content creators like Pranit More, Apoorva Mukhija and Ranveer Allahbadia have also faced controversies and investigations due to the comments made in their programs.
Apart from standup comedy, Harsh Gujral has also worked in films and television programs. He played the character of Rehan Qureshi in the comedy film 'Mere Husband Ki Biwi' released in the year 2025. Arjun Kapoor, Bhumi Pednekar and Rakul Preet Singh were also seen in this film. Gujral has also appeared in programs like 'The Kapil Sharma Show' and 'Madness Machayenge-India Ko Hasayenge'. Apart from this, he has also participated in reality shows like 'The Traitors' and 'Khatron Ke Khiladi'.
Madhur Virali has also come into controversies in the past regarding his standup programs. In June 2026, she faced criticism after an old video clip of her show 'Love & Latex' surfaced online. The clip included a joke on the sensitive topic of rape. After this Virali had publicly apologized.
Virali said that he realized during the program itself that the joke was inappropriate and he removed that part at that time. He also admitted that there is a need to be more careful and sensible while talking about sensitive topics.
At present, there has been no public reaction from Harsh Gujral and Madhur Virali regarding the new summons. Both have been asked to appear before the Maharashtra Cyber Cell on October 19 and present their side. What further emerges in the investigation will become clear after inquiry and investigation of relevant facts.