Rs 370 biryani remark row: NCW summons comic; FIR filed in Mumbai

New Delhi: The National Commission for Women (NCW) on Thursday summoned stand-up comedian Pranit More and web developer Himanshu Jangra over remarks made during a recent comedy show in Gurugram that triggered widespread criticism online.

The controversy began after a clip from the show went viral on social media. During an interaction with the comedian, Jangra recounted a dating experience and appeared to suggest that spending around Rs 370 on a chicken biryani during a date entitled him to something in return from the woman. Both he and More were seen laughing during the exchange, The New Indian Express reported.

The remarks sparked outrage on social media, with reports indicating that Jangra was subsequently dismissed by his employer. More, meanwhile, deactivated his Instagram account amid the backlash.

Taking suo motu cognisance of media reports and the viral video, the NCW said the content appeared to promote sexual coercion and non-consensual behaviour towards women. The commission stated that its chairperson, Vijaya Rahatkar, had written to the Haryana Director General of Police seeking immediate action and requesting a report on the steps taken within seven days.

The commission expressed concern that the normalisation of behaviour undermining a woman's consent, dignity and bodily autonomy could have serious implications for women's safety and societal attitudes towards gender-based violence.

Meanwhile, the Maharashtra Cyber Police registered a case against More, Jangra and others for allegedly circulating obscene and objectionable content on social media. Officials said the accused had been summoned for questioning as part of an inquiry.

The case was registered at the Nodal Cyber Police Station in Mumbai following a preliminary investigation into viral clips from the comedy show hosted by More.