The North News
Chandigarh, August 11
Two of Punjab’s biggest pop stars, Yo Yo Honey Singh and Karan Aujla, have apologised and requested more time to respond to a notice from the Punjab State Women’s Commission over allegations of misogynistic lyrics.
Commission chairperson Raj Lali Gill said both singers informed officials they were travelling and would appear before the panel at a later date. They had been summoned to appear on 11 August after public complaints over their latest songs — Singh’s Millionaire and Aujla’s MF Gabharu.
The commission alleges the tracks objectify women and promote harmful gender stereotypes. Gill said a formal letter had also been sent to the state’s police chief, calling for action.
Both songs have drawn millions of views online but have also faced criticism from campaigners, who say they reflect a wider pattern of the commodification of women in Punjabi music.
Gill warned that unless the singers issue a public apology and remove the contentious lyrics, legal action could follow. “This is not just about music; it’s about the message we are sending to our youth and children,” she said.
The case has reignited a recurring debate in India over where to draw the line between artistic freedom and social responsibility.
