Chandigarh, Aug 11 — Punjabi singers Karan Aujla and YoYo Honey Singh failed to appear before the Punjab State Women’s Commission on Monday after being summoned over objectionable lyrics in their latest songs. The commission said both artists are currently abroad on pre-scheduled projects.
The panel took suo motu notice last week of lyrics in Aujla’s MF Gabru and Honey Singh’s Millionaire, calling them offensive and derogatory toward women. They were directed to appear at the commission’s Chandigarh office at 11 a.m. on August 11.
Commission chairperson Raj Lali Gill said she had spoken to both singers, who expressed regret for not attending the hearing. “They informed me that they are currently outside the country for their pre-scheduled projects. Both singers assured that they will appear before the commission when they come to India after completing their shoots. In the meantime, their lawyers will submit their replies. I will get the police report in two to three days,” she said.
The women’s panel had also asked Punjab Police to investigate the matter. In letters to state Director General of Police Gaurav Yadav, Gill urged that a senior police officer be assigned to the case, action be taken in accordance with the law, and a status report be submitted.
“The commission takes such matters very seriously and is committed to protecting women’s rights and dignity,” Gill wrote. She told reporters that those who use such language “cannot be tolerated.”
Both songs have been widely shared on social media, drawing criticism from various quarters.
