Bengaluru, March 17 Karnataka State Commission for Women Chairperson Nagalakshmi Choudhary called on the CBFC on Tuesday to take a stand against "illegal and obscene lyrics," following public outcry over a song from an upcoming film featuring Sanjay Dutt and Nora Fatehi, which has been criticised for its alleged vulgar lyrics.
She has also written to the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) seeking action by imposing curbs on such songs that disregard social responsibility.
A song from the film "KD The Devil" is the focus of outrage for its sexually explicit lyrics, with widespread criticism. The Kannada film, which will be dubbed in four languages, will be released on April 30.
"Based on complaints received from the public, the Women's Commission has noticed that some of the films under production and recently promoted (e.g. 'KD The Devil') contain lyrics that degrade women's dignity," Choudhary said in a letter to the Regional Director of the CBFC.
Citing guidelines of the film certification, he said that any scene or lyrics that portray women in a derogatory or obscene manner are to be prohibited. "Such provocative lines being broadcast in public will have a negative impact on the safety and social well-being of women. This is also a violation of the constitutional right to dignity of women."
"Therefore, it is requested that such objectionable lyrics and scenes be thoroughly examined and directed to be deleted/excised or modified before granting certification to the said films. It is hereby directed to take strict action against allowing illegal and obscene lyrics," it added.
In her letter to the KFCC Chairman and veteran actress Jayamala, the women's commission chief stated that recently, there have been strong public objections to the lyrics of some Kannada films, especially the song from the film "KD The Devil", and such lyrics are not only obscene, but also create misconceptions about women in society.
Noting that cinema is a medium with a strong influence on society, she said, "Such provocative lyrics are likely to inspire eve-teasing against women going to work in rural and urban areas, as well as school and college students."
"Therefore, the Film Chamber of Commerce should take immediate action in this regard. Strict instructions should be given to the film crews to use lyrics that do not harm the dignity of women. Action should be taken to impose curbs on such songs that forget social responsibility," she added.