FIR filed against comedian Yash Rathi for using derogatory words during show at IIT Bhilai

Comedian Yash Rathi

An FIR has been filed against stand-up comedian Yash Rathi for allegedly using inappropriate language during a performance at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bhilai in Chhattisgarh’s Durg district, a police official confirmed on Tuesday.

The incident took place on November 15 during IIT Bhilai’s annual festival, organized by the student council, which was attended by students, staff, and parents. Clips from Rathi’s performance, where he is reportedly heard using offensive language, have since gone viral on social media.

Durg Superintendent of Police Jitendra Shukla stated that an FIR was lodged against comedian Yash Rathi on Monday under Section 296 (obscene acts) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita at Jevra Sirsa police outpost. The case was registered following multiple complaints, and an investigation is currently underway.

The controversy erupted after clips of Rathi’s performance went viral, prompting groups such as the Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM), the National Students’ Union of India (NSUI), and the Karni Sena to file complaints with the IIT management, local authorities, and police. Subsequently, the IIT Bhilai administration also lodged a formal complaint with the police.

"During the show, when Rathi allegedly started using objectionable words, the institute management intervened and asked him to get down from the stage," IIT Bhilai Director Rajiv Prakash said. "Stand-up comedy acts were held during the institute’s annual fest in the past but such language was never used by performers. We were shocked when Rathi used such language," he added.

According to Prakash, the institute’s management has resolved not to host stand-up comedy shows in the future. He also mentioned that the management had filed a police complaint against Yash Rathi.