NHRC demands action against Ranbir Kapoor, Netflix over e-cigarette scene

Mumbai: Actor Ranbir Kapoor is reportedly in legal trouble after the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) directed Mumbai Police to register a case against him, the producers of “The Ba***ds of Bollywood”, and Netflix.

The move follows allegations that the series depicted and promoted e-cigarettes in one scene, reportedly showing Kapoor using an e-cigarette without any warning or disclaimer, in violation of the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act, 2019.

Complainant Vinay Joshi claimed the scene, streamed publicly, could mislead young viewers by glamorising the use of banned substances. He added that such content is irresponsible, encourages illegal behaviour, undermines law enforcement, and poses risks to public health and societal values.

The NHRC has issued a notice to the Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, urging swift action to ban content that could negatively influence young audiences. The Mumbai Police Commissioner has reportedly been asked to investigate the identities and activities of electronic cigarette manufacturers and importers. Authorities have been given a two-week deadline to submit their action report to the commission.

Directed by Aryan Khan, “The Ba***ds of Bollywood” features a star-studded ensemble including Bobby Deol, Lakshya, Sahher Bambba, Mona Singh, Manish Chaudhari, Raghav Juyal, Anya Singh, Manoj Pahwa, Rajat Bedi, and Gautami Kapoor. It also includes special appearances by Karan Johar, Ranveer Singh, Siddhant Chaturvedi, Disha Patani, Orry, Shanaya Kapoor, Ibrahim Ali Khan, Rajkummar Rao, and Sara Ali Khan.

The series, offering a satirical take on Bollywood, premiered on 18 September 2025 on Netflix.

With IANS inputs