New Delhi, 07 May (H.S.):

Punjabi singer Honey Singh informed the Delhi High Court that he did not perform the song 'Volume 1' during the concert at Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium on March 1, 2025. Following this disclosure, Justice Purushendra Kaurav directed Honey Singh to file an affidavit in this regard. The next hearing is scheduled for May 19.

During Thursday's hearing, counsel Rajshekhar Rao, representing Honey Singh, stated that this stigma must end. He mentioned that a similar case has been filed in Maharashtra court where Honey Singh claimed he did not perform the song. The court noted the petitioner's claim that the song was performed at Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium on March 1, 2025. Rao responded that no such event occurred, prompting the court to direct filing of an affidavit. The matter is listed for May 19.

On April 2, the Delhi High Court ordered removal of the song from all platforms. Justice Purushendra Kaurav's bench stated they had heard the song and it was one of those rare cases that completely shocked the court's conscience.

The court directed all platforms including social media to ensure no portion of the song remains publicly accessible. It described the song as obscene and derogatory to women, objectifying them. The court noted the song lacks any artistic or social value and no civilized society can permit it on digital platforms.

Justice Purushendra Kaurav mentioned recently hearing parts of Honey Singh's song during a concert, leading to issuance of notices to Honey Singh and Badshah with directions to remove it from all platforms. The petition was filed by Hindu Shakti Dal organization. 'Volume 1', released by Honey Singh two decades ago, gained significant popularity but faced backlash over its portrayal of women. Complaints against the song were registered at multiple locations.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar