Manali/Patna: Social media influencer and YouTuber Prakash Kumar, popularly known as Puneet Superstar, has landed in legal trouble after a series of controversial videos shot in Manali went viral for allegedly mocking the people of Himachal Pradesh and their poverty.
An FIR has been registered against Puneet under Section 196 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) based on a complaint filed by a local resident of Sundernagar. The case was initially filed by the Sundernagar Police and later transferred to Manali Police for further investigation. Puneet has been summoned for questioning.
Allegations: Mockery, Insensitivity, and Misrepresentation
In the complaint, Puneet is accused of shooting three separate videos in which he allegedly ridicules poor workers and generalizes Himachal as a poverty-stricken state, purely for social media attention.
In one video, Puneet records a reel with a corn seller on the roadside, laughing and sarcastically urging viewers to “support the poor people of Himachal.” He then mockingly says the man has “lost his memory.” The corn seller, visibly disturbed by the behavior, refuses to accept Puneet’s ₹10 note.
In another video, Puneet interacts with a man of Nepali origin, again commenting on the “poverty” of the region and giving the man ₹10 while mocking his identity and profession.
In the third clip, Puneet is seen wearing Himachali attire and polishing shoes on the roadside for views. He theatrically begs for ₹1 or ₹2 while making exaggerated gestures.
Backlash on Social Media
The videos sparked a massive backlash online, with users accusing Puneet of being insensitive and exploitative.
“They’ll do anything for views. If someone slaps them, they’ll call it an attack on tourists,” wrote one user.
“Mocking someone’s livelihood is not entertainment,” commented another.
Several users also pointed out that none of the individuals in the videos appeared to be native Himachalis, undermining the credibility of his portrayal.
Apology Issued Amid Escalating Controversy
Following the uproar, Puneet released an apology video, stating that he had no intention to hurt the sentiments of Himachali people and expressing regret for his actions.
However, the police have stated that legal action will proceed regardless of the apology, as the content is being treated as potentially defamatory and harmful to the image of Himachal Pradesh.
Puneet’s Past Controversies
Puneet Kumar is no stranger to controversy. He shot to fame with his erratic and hyperactive rant videos on social media, gaining a cult-like following. In 2023, he briefly participated in Salman Khan’s reality show ‘Bigg Boss OTT 2’, but was evicted within hours after smearing toothpaste on his face and damaging property in the house bathroom.
A native of Bihar, Puneet enjoys a large social media following but remains a polarizing figure due to his often disruptive and controversial content.
