An FIR has been registered at Hazratganj Police Station in Lucknow against the creators of the web series Ghooskhor Pandat, following allegations that the show’s title and content offend religious and caste sentiments and pose a threat to social harmony. Police officials said the action was taken in line with directives to act firmly against material that could disturb public peace.

According to the Lucknow Police, Inspector Vikram Singh, Station House Officer of Kotwali Hazratganj, took cognisance of complaints concerning the series, which is reportedly being circulated on social media and an OTT platform. Preliminary assessment suggests that the title was intentionally designed to target and insult a specific community, particularly the Brahmin community, by associating the term “Pandat” with corruption.

Authorities noted widespread anger among members of the Brahmin community and several social organisations over the series’ name and alleged content. Some groups have reportedly warned of protests, raising concerns about law and order and the potential disruption of communal harmony. Given the sensitivity of the situation, an FIR has been filed under relevant legal provisions against the director, Neeraj Pandey, and his team. Police stated that investigations and further legal action are ongoing and reiterated a zero-tolerance stance toward any content that hurts community sentiments or disrupts public order.

Meanwhile, related legal proceedings are underway in Delhi. A writ petition has been filed in the Delhi High Court seeking a stay on the release and streaming of an upcoming Netflix film titled Ghooskhor Pandat. The petition, submitted by Mahender Chaturvedi through Advocate Vineet Jindal, alleges that the title and proposed content are defamatory and communally offensive.

The petitioner argues that linking the term “Pandat” with bribery and immoral behaviour damages the dignity and reputation of the Brahmin community and undermines the cultural and historical significance of the term, which traditionally represents learning, ethical values, and spiritual guidance. The plea claims the portrayal amounts to stereotyping and vilification of an entire religious and social group.

It further contends that the content violates fundamental rights under Articles 14, 21, and 25 of the Constitution, while acknowledging that freedom of expression under Article 19(1)(a) is subject to reasonable restrictions. The petition also seeks directions to the Union Government and Netflix India to halt the release and take action under applicable digital and OTT regulations, citing the risk of irreversible harm if the content is streamed.