Rapper-singer Badshah has landed in legal trouble after failing to appear before the Haryana State Commission for Women (HSCW) over alleged objectionable lyrics in his recently released Haryanvi song ‘Tateeree’.
The commission had summoned the singer, whose real name is Aditya Pratik Singh Sisodia, to appear before it in Panipat by 3 pm on March 13, following a notice issued on March 6. However, he did not appear before the panel, prompting strong action from the commission.
HSCW Chairperson Renu Bhatia expressed displeasure over the singer’s absence and directed the Superintendent of Police in Panipat to arrest him. Speaking to reporters, Bhatia said she had instructed the police to locate the rapper and take necessary action.
“I have ordered the SP Panipat to arrest Badshah from anywhere and issue search orders if required,” she said.
The commission has also directed authorities to seize the singer’s passport to prevent him from leaving the country. Bhatia further stated that FIRs in the matter have been registered in Panchkula and Jind.
According to the chairperson, lawyers representing Badshah had sought another date for his appearance, but the commission declined the request. She also said that a letter has been sent to the National Commission for Women, urging that the rapper’s shows across the country be restricted until the matter is resolved.
Song controversy
The controversy erupted after a complaint alleged that the track ‘Tateeree’ contains obscene lyrics that objectify women and minors. The complaint was filed by Savita Arya, president of the Nari Tu Narayani Utthan Samiti in Panipat, along with Shiv Kumar, director of the Shiv Aarti India Foundation.
Following the complaint, police registered an FIR at the Cyber Police Station in Sector 20, Panchkula, and the women’s commission initiated proceedings against the rapper.
‘Tateeree’, a Haryanvi hip-hop single, is sung by Badshah along with vocalist Simran Jaglan. The lyrics were written by Badshah, while the music was composed and produced by Hiten.