Chandigarh: The Punjab State Women’s Commission has summoned popular singers Yo Yo Honey Singh and Karan Aujla after receiving complaints that their recent songs contain language that demeans women. Both artists were directed to appear before the commission today, where they will be asked to explain the use of such lyrics.
Commission chairperson Raj Lali Gill said she reviewed the tracks in question before initiating action. According to the commission, Honey Singh’s song Millionaire and Aujla’s MF Gabru contain objectionable references to women. “We will ask them directly why such words were used and ensure these songs are not played in the future,” Gill stated, adding that a police report on the matter is also expected today.
The commission has formally written to the Punjab Police, instructing the Director General of Police to assign a Chandigarh-based officer to investigate and take strict action if necessary. The findings will be submitted to the commission.
This is not the first time the two singers have faced controversy. In December 2024, Karan Aujla was accused of promoting alcohol during a live show in Chandigarh, prompting police intervention following a High Court petition. In March 2025, Honey Singh drew criticism from the BJP for performing in Chandigarh on Martyrdom Day, with the party claiming such events could send the wrong message to youth.
Legal experts note that state governments can ban songs deemed harmful to public sentiment or societal harmony, a measure previously taken against Sidhu Moosewala’s SYL and certain tracks by Haryanvi singer Masoom Sharma. In Punjab, songs that promote gun culture or contain degrading references to women have increasingly come under scrutiny.
Whether today’s proceedings will lead to a ban or further legal action remains to be seen, but the commission has made it clear that it intends to set a precedent against misogynistic content in Punjabi music.
