Elvish Yadav Issues Apology After NCW Summons Over Comments On Chum Darang: ‘I Don’t Know Her Personally’

YouTuber and Bigg Boss OTT 2 winner Elvish Yadav has issued a public apology following widespread criticism over his racist comments targeting actor and Bigg Boss 18 contestant Chum Darang.

Speaking to ANI after his meeting with the NCW, Elvish said his comments had been misinterpreted, and admitted that maturity and understanding come with age.

Source : Instagram/@elvish_yadav, @chum_darang

YouTuber and Bigg Boss OTT 2 winner Elvish Yadav has issued a public apology following widespread criticism over his racist comments targeting actor and Bigg Boss 18 contestant Chum Darang. After being summoned by the National Commission for Women (NCW), Elvish appeared at the commission's office on April 22 and addressed the controversy.

Elvish Yadav apologises

Speaking to ANI after his meeting with the NCW, Elvish said his comments had been misinterpreted, and admitted that maturity and understanding come with age. “As we grow in life and our age increases, maturity comes, and those who were bothered by the 'Chum' part—there are many people who did not understand my intentions,” he explained.

He further added, “I agree that if people are bothered by my statements, I must have said something wrong. In regard to this case, I went inside and apologised. I have nothing personal against anyone, nor do I hold grudges. I have submitted my apology to all the people I have hurt, especially Chum. I don’t even know her personally. But my apologies to everyone who has been hurt by my remarks.”

#WATCH | Delhi: On visiting the NCW Office, YouTuber Elvish Yadav says, "... There are many people who did not understand my intentions... I agree that if people are bothered by my statements, I must have said something wrong. In regards to this case, I went inside and… pic.twitter.com/VNiNNp5zui

— ANI (@ANI) April 22, 2025

What sparked the controversy?

In February, Elvish in a podcast made derogatory and racially insensitive comments about Chum Darang. The remarks were made during a conversation with fellow Bigg Boss contestant Rajat Dalal, where Elvish mocked Chum's name and made tasteless jokes about her ethnicity and looks.

He said during the episode, “Karanveer definitely had COVID because who would like Chum, bro? Who has such bad taste! And even Chum's name itself is vulgar... Her name is Chum, and she worked in Gangubai Kathiawadi.”

The comments triggered massive outrage, particularly from the Northeast community, with many condemning the casual racism and insensitivity. Chum Darang responded strongly, calling out Elvish for mocking her name and heritage. The Arunachal Pradesh State Women's Commission (APSCW) also stepped in, issuing a letter to the NCW urging strict action.

The APSCW noted that such remarks foster insecurity among women from the Northeast working in the entertainment industry and demanded accountability for promoting racist narratives.