Arrest Badshah, seize passport: Haryana Women's Commission over 'Tateeree' row
What's the story
The Haryana State Commission for Women (HSCW) has ordered the arrest of rapper Badshah, whose real name is Aditya Prateek Singh, over his controversial song Tateeree. The decision was taken after he failed to appear before the commission in Panipat by a 3:00pm deadline on Friday. The song reportedly contains objectionable lyrics that insult women.
Legal proceedings
Lawyers sought 15-day extension for Badshah's appearance
HSCW has also directed the Panipat and Panchkula Police to seize the rapper's passport. Three lawyers representing Badshah appeared before the commission and requested a 15-day extension for his appearance, citing professional commitments. They also expressed security concerns and asked to present their case via video conferencing, which HSCW chairperson Renu Bhatia denied. Local complainants Savita Arya and Shiv Kumar from two separate NGOs were also present at the hearing.
Defense stance
Badshah didn't receive summons, issue being politicized: Lawyer
One of the lawyers, Akshay Dahiya, claimed they did not get any summons and alleged that the issue was being politicized. He also accused Bhatia of bias as they were not given a chance to present their side. Dahiya added that Badshah had already apologized, taken down the song, and has always stood up as a "proud Haryanvi."
Official statement
Two cases registered in Jind, 1 in Panchkula
After the hearing, Bhatia told the media that her counterparts in Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh have supported them on this issue. She has also written to the National Women's Commission, demanding a ban on Badshah's songs and a boycott of his shows across India. She revealed that two cases have been registered in Jind and one in Panchkula, and now, another case will be registered in Panipat.
Song controversy
Controversy erupted earlier this month
The controversy erupted over Badshah's song Tateeree, released earlier this month. The video was criticized by social organizations and activists for allegedly disrespecting women. The visuals allegedly showed girls in school uniforms dancing on a Haryana Roadways bus and making inappropriate gestures. Following the uproar, Badshah issued a public apology through a video message, clarifying that he never intended to hurt public sentiments.