NHRC Directs I&B Ministry to Probe Netflix Series "Ghooskhor Pandat" Over Caste Stereotyping Allegations

New Delhi- The National Human Rights Commission of India has stepped into a brewing controversy surrounding a planned Netflix series. The NHRC, taking suo motu cognizance of a formal complaint, has directed the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to conduct a swift probe into allegations that the upcoming series titled "Rishwatkhor Pandat" promotes harmful caste-based stereotypes and could incite social discord.

This directive, issued under the powers of the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993, mandates the ministry to submit a detailed Action Taken Report within two weeks, placing the spotlight squarely on the global streaming giant's content moderation policies in the complex Indian social landscape.

The complaint was lodged by Sanjeev Newar, founder of the social media entity 'Gems of Bollywood,' who alleged that the very title of the series, translating to "a Brahmin who is habitually corrupt and takes bribes," is inherently discriminatory. The grievance argues that such a title directly and derogatorily associates a specific caste community with criminal and immoral behavior, going beyond legitimate satire or criticism to instead engage in public humiliation and psychological violence. The complainant emphasized that in a society already grappling with caste sensitivities, content that vilifies a recognized social group can fuel hatred, disturb public order, and pose a risk to human life and dignity, thereby constituting a violation of human rights.

The NHRC bench, presided over by its member Priyank Kanoongo, found prima facie merit in these allegations, prompting immediate legal action. In a x post, Kanoongo stated, " I have received a complaint from GemsOfBollywood stating that NetflixIndia OTT platform is planning to broadcast a program titled "Ghooskhor Pandit".

Such titles and programs target specific castes and communities, subjecting them to criticism and ridicule, shaming the community, and fostering animosity in society. This constitutes a form of psychological violence that threatens to disrupt public order and harm human lives. Therefore, a notice is being issued to the concerned department for necessary action."

Apart from the Rights body, individuals too have been opposing the title. A Bombay High Court advocate Ashutosh Dubey has sent legal notice to Netflix over the title. Dubey stated, he has issued notices to Netflix and the directors of the movie/web series titled “Ghooskhor Pandat”. (Ritesh Shah & Neeraj Pandit) Using the word Pandit as a synonym for corruption is defamatory, irresponsible, and a direct attack on the dignity of a respected community. Creative freedom does not permit collective stereotyping. Accountability has been formally demanded. The matter will now proceed strictly as per law."