Jul 11, 2024 – Praneeth Hanumanthu, a popular YouTuber known for his controversial content, was arrested by the Telangana Cyber Security Bureau (TGCSB) in Bengaluru on July 10, 2024. The arrest came after Telugu actor Sai Dharam Tej filed a complaint, expressing his outrage over Hanumanthu’s derogatory comments about a father-daughter relationship.
Controversial Comments and Outrage
Praneeth Hanumanthu’s video, which contained offensive remarks about a father-daughter relationship, triggered widespread outrage and condemnation on social media. The comments were deemed obscene and vulgar, leading to a police case under various sections of the Information Technology Act.
The Arrest and Apology
After the case was registered, Hanumanthu absconded but was eventually apprehended by TGCSB officials in Bengaluru. Despite issuing a public apology, the damage had already been done, and he faced severe online backlash.
“I unconditionally and unambiguously apologize for my lapse in judgment. As a creator, my attempt is always to put a smile. Unfortunately, this time I crossed the line between what is dark and what is distasteful,” Hanumanthu stated in his apology.
Family Involvement and Public Reaction
The controversy also ensnared Praneeth Hanumanthu’s brother, Ajay Hanumanthu, a fashion YouTuber, who faced criticism and backlash. Ajay posted a video clarifying his lack of involvement in his brother’s actions, stating that he has lived apart from his family for six years and requested the media not to associate him with the controversy.
“I have nothing to do with my brother’s arrest or controversy. I have been living separately and have faced my challenges. Please do not drag me into this matter,” Ajay Hanumanthu said.
Father’s Reaction
The controversy deeply affected Praneeth Hanumanthu’s father, H. Arun Kumar, a senior IAS officer. Mr. Kumar expressed his distress over the incident, emphasizing the importance of responsible content creation.
“As a parent and a public servant, I am deeply saddened and disturbed by my son’s actions. The comments he made are unacceptable and go against the values we hold as a family. I hope this serves as a lesson on the responsibility that comes with a significant online presence,” Mr. Kumar stated.
Celebrity and Public Condemnation
The arrest of Praneeth Hanumanthu has been widely condemned by the public and celebrities alike. Actor Sai Dharam Tej, who initially flagged the video, tagged Telangana Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao and urged him to take necessary action to prevent such incidents in the future.
“This is beyond gruesome, disgusting, and scary. Monsters like these go unnoticed on the very much-utilized social platform doing child abuse in the disguise of so-called Fun & Dank. Child safety is the need of the hour,” Sai Dharam Tej stated.
Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao responded, thanking the actor for bringing the issue to light. “Thank you for bringing this issue to our notice, @IamSaiDharamTej garu. Child safety is our utmost priority. We will look into this incident and take appropriate action,” the CM tweeted.
Legal Proceedings and Future Implications
Praneeth Hanumanthu is expected to be produced in court soon. This incident has ignited a debate about the accountability of social media content creators and the need for stricter regulations. The Telangana Cyber Bureau’s swift action and the widespread condemnation highlight the growing concern over inappropriate content on digital platforms.
As the legal proceedings continue, the case of Praneeth Hanumanthu serves as a stark reminder of the impact of social media and the responsibility that comes with a significant online presence. The incident also underscores the emotional toll on the families of those involved in such controversies, emphasizing the need for more mindful and respectful content creation.
