The Punjab State Women's Commission has summoned singers Yo Yo Honey Singh and Karan Aujla for allegedly promoting misogyny through their song lyrics, sparking a debate on artistic freedom vs social responsibility.
Taking serious note of the content in certain recently released tracks, the Women's Commission has alleged that the songs contain offensive and derogatory references to women. The Commission has asked both artists to appear in person and explain their stand on the matter. The notices have been issued under concerns of promoting gender insensitivity and potential violation of women’s rights under various legal provisions.
Chairperson of the Commission, Manisha Gulati, stated that popular artists must exercise responsibility when their content reaches millions, especially the youth. She emphasized that glorifying violence, objectification, or abuse against women under the guise of entertainment cannot be tolerated.
The notice also mentions that if the artists fail to appear or provide satisfactory responses, legal action may follow. This move has received mixed reactions—while many women’s rights advocates have praised the Commission’s stand, fans of the artists argue in defense of artistic freedom and creative expression.
This is not the first time Yo Yo Honey Singh has found himself in the middle of controversy over explicit or offensive lyrics. Karan Aujla, too, has faced criticism in the past for content that allegedly glamorizes violence and toxic masculinity.
As the summoned date approaches, all eyes will be on how the artists respond to the Commission’s concerns and whether it will impact future creative choices in the Punjabi music industry.
