Policing the digital age: Celebrities question regulation of online content

Kriti Kharbanda, actress, and Cyrus Broacha, comedian, actor, host, and columnist, discussed the ‘The Power of Social Media – Navigating Celebritydom’ at ABP Network's Ideas of India 2025, exploring the fine line between freedom of expression and online scrutiny, the evolving nature of digital interactions, and the impact of social media on personal and professional lives. 

On regulating YouTube content, Kriti questioned the practicality of policing online platforms. "You can’t regulate every camera. What about what is happening behind the camera, on the internet, or in people’s minds? People shouldn’t bring filth back home - that’s what should be regulated. But how far can we go?"

Cyrus added, "Why is ‘India’s Got Lalent’ getting so much hype? People watch it, so how many can we police? That’s the real question." And, on the recent Ranveer Allahbadia controversy, Cyrus said, "They are not confirmed criminals."

Addressing freedom of expression, Cyrus remarked, "‘Parampara’ and ‘Sanskriti’ are widely used words, but who sets the boundaries? “If you want free speech, you need to tolerate different viewpoints." He also spoke about his own experience in comedy, saying, "I’ve always done political comedy, but it was clean - veg jokes. Many ministers even gave me good feedback."

Kriti highlighted the need to focus on real issues, saying, "Our country has so many real problems that need attention. Honestly, I would rather not have an opinion - actors get send nudes and all sorts of things. Maybe that’s what needs regulation."

Speaking about social media’s impact, she noted, "It’s necessary to have a social presence, but overuse can turn into addiction. Moderation is key." She also shared, "I love engaging with my audience, but I’ve learned to use social media mindfully—it’s a tool, not my identity." On handling criticism, she recalled her father’s advice: "Log kya sochenge agar vo bhi me sochungi to log kya sochenge (If I start worrying about what people think, then what will people think)"

When asked about the evil eye (‘nazar’), Kriti admitted, "Yes, I wear my kala dhaga and kala tika." Adding his signature humor, Cyrus quipped, "I wear underwear."

ABP Network's Ideas of India 2025, centred around the theme ‘Humanity’s Next Frontier’, will bring together thought leaders and innovators to explore the challenges and opportunities posed by India’s rise in a rapidly evolving world. In the face of climate change, geopolitical conflicts, and technological advancements such as AI, the summit delved into India’s role as both an ancient civilisation and a demographic powerhouse in shaping the future. The two-day summit gathers a confluence of ideas from global thought leaders, intellectuals, and change makers, covering transformative possibilities in science, medicine, social contracts, and global leadership, with experts from diverse fields offering bold visions for a better, more sustainable world for all.

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