Published 17:40 IST, July 3rd 2019
Honey Singh 'Makhna' Controversy | Punjab's Women's Panel chief says, "We are going to file an FIR, make sure the song is banned", and demands Censor Board action over utterly sexist and shameful lyrics
The Punjab State Women Commission has sought action against rapper Yo Yo Honey Singh for allegedly using vulgar lyrics against women in a recent song.
The Punjab State Women Commission has sought action against rapper Yo Yo Honey Singh for allegedly using vulgar lyrics against women in a recent song. Taking suo motu cognizance, Chairperson of the Women Panel Manisha Gulati has written to the state home secretary, Punjab Director General of Police and Inspector General of Police (Crime), recommending appropriate action against the singer.
Speaking exclusively to Republic TV, the Chairperson of Women Panel said that strict action will be taken against singer Honey Singh over his disgustingly sexist lyrics.
Since the song released in December, why have you decided to take action now?
We have a lot of responsibilities, we have a lot of work, and at the time we were not able to file a complaint, but "dere aye durust aaye", is the policy we have followed, At the time we had not realized, and we were not able to serve the notice to them. But now we have followed it up, and now strict action will be taken against them.
After filing the complaint, have you personally tried contacting Honey Singh of his team?
No, we have not done so, For us, our law itself is 'personal', and we have spoken to the Punjab government to take strict action against the matter. We are going to file an FIR and get his song banned. Because he has used terrible vulgar language. We talk about women rights and empowerment, and on the other hand, Honey Singh is using such distasteful language for addressing the gender.
Now that a complaint has been filed, how will you pursue the case?
We have contacted a brilliant officer here in Punjab, and we have registered a complaint with him and an inquiry is underway
This is not the first time the singer has used vulgar and distasteful lyrics to describe women, what are your thoughts on that?
This happens because the government has not taken any initiative or steps in order to ban vulgar language in songs. The Censor Board should also pitch in, and limitations should be addressed. The dignity of either gender should not be compromised and we have taken this initiative and hence we will not keep quiet.
Updated 18:15 IST, July 3rd 2019