Comedian Samay Raina has tendered an unconditional apology before the Supreme Court for making insensitive remarks about individuals with disabilities and rare genetic disorders on his former podcast India’s Got Latent.

In his affidavit, Raina clarified that his words were never meant to demean or hurt anyone. He said he is committed to producing inclusive and socially responsible content and assured the court of his intent to exercise greater sensitivity in the future.

Raina explained that the controversial clip involving a visually impaired individual had been taken out of context. According to him, the complete conversation reflected encouragement rather than mockery, pointing out that he had even invited the person to perform in Mumbai, where the audience gave a standing ovation.

Acknowledging that mimicry can be perceived as offensive when it targets vulnerable traits, Raina admitted the need for comedians to be more cautious. He also submitted details of his philanthropic efforts, noting that he has personally donated about ₹9 lakh and helped raise more than ₹23 lakh for social causes.

The affidavit was filed ahead of Monday’s hearing, where the Supreme Court directed five influencers—including Raina—to publicly apologise on their platforms for ridiculing persons with disabilities.

A bench of Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi also asked the central government to frame guidelines to prevent offensive or derogatory speech targeting marginalised groups, including women, children, the elderly, and disabled persons.

Observing that freedom of expression cannot extend to commercialised humour that demeans vulnerable sections, Justice Bagchi stressed that creators must exercise restraint. Justice Kant added that accountability is crucial, warning that ridicule could shift from disabled persons today to women or senior citizens tomorrow.

Raina, along with YouTuber Ranveer Allahbadia and other comedians—Ashish Chanchlani, Jaspreet Singh, and Apoorva Makhija—faces cases in Maharashtra and Assam over remarks made on the show. Earlier this year, the court granted Allahbadia interim protection from arrest, criticising his comments as “vulgar” and damaging to society.