Pune, April 2 Pune district child protection officer Mangesh Jadhav wrote to police commissioner Amitesh Kumar on Thursday, raising concerns about the songs of rapper Yo Yo Honey Singh, which he alleged "glorify alcohol, drugs, and gun culture."
In the letter, Jadhav asked the police department to ensure that the content of Singh's performances remains "appropriate, socially responsible, and in conformity with child protection principles and statutory safeguards."
The letter was written following a complaint submitted to the Maharashtra Women and Child Development Department by Dr Punditrao Dharenavar from Chandigarh.
"Songs by Honey Singh such as 'One Bottle Down,' 'Char Bottle Vodka,' 'Manali Trance,' and 'This Party Getting Hot' glorify alcohol, drugs, and gun culture. During the Honey Singh live concert, minors (under 18 years) are allowed. If he sings such songs, children could be negatively impacted on their mental health," Jadhav's letter stated.
Singh reportedly used "vulgar language" on stage during his show in Mumbai on March 28. This was likely a reference to Singh's 'My Story' tour event in the city, during which he performed songs such as "Millionaire," "Desi Kalakar," "Mafia Mundeer," and "Dope Shope."
"Therefore, you are advised to ensure that the content of the programme remains appropriate, socially responsible, and in conformity with child protection principles and statutory safeguards," Jadhav's letter to the police commissioner said.
Incidentally, the Delhi High Court on Thursday took strong exception to a "vulgar" and "derogatory" song allegedly released by rappers Yo Yo Honey Singh and Badshah in 2006, saying the track was in complete disregard of even the minimum standards of civility and directed its removal from online platforms.