The Supreme Court on Friday (August 14, 2026) quashed criminal proceedings against comedian Samay Raina and four others for their remarks about people with disabilities and appreciated their efforts in spreading awareness and promoting dignity of such people.
Besides Mr. Raina, the apex court quashed the FIRs and criminal proceedings against Vipul Goyal, Balraj Paramjeet Singh Ghai, Sonali Thakkar and Nishant Jagdish Tanwar. The top court appreciated the efforts made by them in organising a chess tournament in March for disabled persons and helping raise awareness about organisations working for persons with disabilities, including the ones supporting those suffering from rare diseases such as Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA). The top court was hearing pleas, including the one filed by M/s SMA Cure Foundation which works for individuals affected by rare SMA disease.
During the hearing, the CJI observed that on Thursday (August 13, 2026), he and some judges of the top court had the opportunity to interact with a delegation of persons with disabilities.
During the hearing, senior advocate Aparajita Singh, appearing for the foundation, said that pursuant to the top court’s order in the matter, these influencers have made “genuine efforts” and have tried to engage with the foundation. “This matter was going nowhere till this court took a very strong stand last time,” Ms. Singh said. The top court said it would consider the larger issue concerning the need for issuing comprehensive directions to protect the dignity of disabled.
