Make prior approval from the Censor Board mandatory for stand-up comedy shows that spread obscenity!

Shiv Sena MLA Dr Manisha Kayande’s demands action from the Chief Minister

(Stand-up comedy refers to a ‘solo comedy performance’)

MLA Dr. Manisha Kayande and Praneet More

Mumbai – Shiv Sena’s Chief Whip in Legislative Council and spokesperson MLC Dr Manisha Kayande has written to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis demanding that cases be registered against Pranit More and others who conduct stand-up comedy shows containing obscene and immoral dialogues in the name of art; such programs should be brought under the purview of the Censor Board. A copy of this letter has also been sent by MLC Dr Manisha Kayande to Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar.

In the letter, Dr Manisha Kayande has written,

1. The obscene dialogues and derogatory statements made by Pranit More on his show a few days ago have been circulated on social media. These statements may have an adverse effect on the minds of those who donate their bodies or organs to various government as well as private medical colleges and hospitals. Such statements may also have a negative impact on the organ donation campaign.

2. Social media influencers are spreading obscenity in society through ‘stand-up comedy’ in the name of entertainment and art. When Eknath Shinde was the Chief Minister of Maharashtra, objectionable statements were made about him in a ‘stand-up comedy; programme.

3. The Police have registered a case against Pranit More, who organized this programme, and Dr Sejal Pawar, who participated in the programme; However, there is an urgent need for strict action to permanently stop such incidents from recurring.

What is the issue?

In Pranit More’s stand-up comedy show, Dr Sejal Pawar, a medical student at Mumbai’s ‘KEM’ hospital, made obscene and objectionable comments about the private parts of male cadavers that had been donated to the hospital through body donation. Pranit laughed at her remarks and encouraged her. Those present at the program also responded with laughter. When this incident was broadcast on social media, there was strong criticism from all levels. Considering the seriousness of the matter, Dr Sejal Pawar has been sent on compulsory leave by the hospital administration.