Elvish Yadav Apologizes After NCW Summons Over Racist Comments Against Actress Chum Darang:

Elvish Yadav, YouTuber and winner of Bigg Boss OTT 2, sparked controversy with racially charged remarks aimed at Bigg Boss 18 contestant and actress Chum Darang. The outrageous comments made during a podcast in February received widespread outrage after they were shared on social media, prompting swift backlash and action from the National Commission for Women (NCW).

NCW: Charges of Defamation and Discrimination

The Arunachal Pradesh State Commission for Women (APSCW) also labeled the remark discriminatory and damaging, condemning him for misogynistic overtones. The Commission called for the NCW to act firmly, noting the greater effect such statements have on women from the Northeast region and their portrayal in the entertainment industry.

With public pressure, the NCW decided to summon Yadav to offer a defense for his statements. Following allegations and public scrutiny, the NCW called Yadav to council him about his remarks. He attended the NCW hearing on April 22 where he publicly apologized.

Elvish Defends Himself, Claims Misunderstanding

Later on, Elvish spoke with the media, stating, he is of the view that he is not the sole person using the comment which has been criticized by many. ‘For so many people, “Chum” was an insult,” he stated, “had means wrong, excuse my bluntness but hurt means welcome at the comments it ruffled a lot of feathers.

“I bear no ill will towards anyone. I truly regret the impact of my remarks on Chum Darang and everyone else affected. I have issued an apology in writing," added.

In Anger and with Dignity, Chum Darang Responds

While expressing her displeasure, Chum Darang has also expressed her indignation at the derogatory disrespect for her name, the mockery of the guesswork regarding her name in masquerade, and even her ethnicity. She pointed out that such remarks, apart from being insulting, also undermine and fuel self-doubt, especially among women from the Northeastern part of India who work in Bollywood.

She received support from women’s groups across the state and the country, which unrelatedly fuelled the focus in relation to a wider issue.

Background of the Debate

The debate emerged for the first time from an episode of a podcast featuring Elvish and Rajat Dalal in which the former made fun of Chum’s name and her contribution in gangubai kathiawadi and later in part mocked her. The excerpt went viral and was critiqued the world over as offensive and undertones cross the bounds of racism and utter insensitivity.