A video posted by Tamil YouTube channel Parithabangal has come under intense scrutiny following allegations of offending religious sentiments. The video, titled "Lattu Parithabangal," which joked about the Tirumala Tirupati laddoo, sparked backlash for allegedly making derogatory remarks. Following this, Tamil Nadu BJP functionary Amar Prasad Reddy has filed a formal complaint with Andhra Pradesh Director General of Police (DGP) demanding that an FIR be registered against the channel for creating enmity and outraging religious feelings under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
In his complaint, Reddy highlighted a specific statement from the video that claimed, “Tirupati Laddoo with Beef and Fish Oil will taste superb," which he described as deeply offensive to Hindus and disrespectful of the religious significance of the sacred offering. The video, he stated, contained objectionable innuendos targeting Chief Minister Chandra Babu Naidu and Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan as well.
Taking to Twitter, Amar Prasad Reddy confirmed the complaint, stating, "Even though they’ve taken down the video, it not only insults the sentiments of Hindus but also attempts to spread enmity among communities and instigate potential law and order issues."
Reddy has urged the Andhra Pradesh police to take immediate action under Section 196 (promoting enmity between different groups on grounds of religion) and Section 299 (deliberate and malicious acts intended to outrage religious feelings) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
The Controversy: "Lattu Parithabangal"
The video, which was released on Parithabangal and featured the popular YouTuber duo Gopi and Sudhakar, received mixed reviews. While some viewers saw it as light-hearted comedy, others expressed outrage, accusing the creators of disrespecting religious sentiments. As criticism mounted, the video was taken down by the creators.
Following the backlash, Gopi, one of the creators, posted an apology on Instagram. "The last video was made purely for comedy and was not intended to offend anyone. However, if it has hurt sentiments, we apologize and have deleted the video. We assure you that such content will not be repeated in the future," Gopi stated.
Despite the apology and the removal of the video, the controversy continues to gain attention, with the BJP leader's formal complaint further intensifying the matter.