Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India]: The Bengaluru District Police on Monday served a notice to renowned playback singer Sonu Nigam, directing him to appear before the investigation officer within a week in connection with a recent FIR filed against him
The FIR, lodged on May 3 at the Avalahalli Police Station in Bengaluru Rural District, accuses Nigam of making remarks during a live performance that allegedly hurt the sentiments of the Kannadiga community. The contentious comments, made on stage during a music event, were captured in a video that has since gone viral on social media.
Dharmaraj A, President of the Bengaluru City District Unit of Karnataka Rakshana Vedike—a prominent pro-Kannada organization—filed the complaint. The FIR invokes Sections 351(2), 352(1), and 353 of the Indian Penal Code, accusing Nigam of making “objectionable and emotionally provocative” statements that could incite discord among linguistic communities in Karnataka.
In protest, members of the Karnataka Rakshana Vedike staged a demonstration at Freedom Park in Bengaluru, demanding action against the singer for what they termed as an “anti-Kannada” statement.
Responding to the controversy, Sonu Nigam clarified his stance via social media, asserting that his comments were taken out of context and that he had no intention of offending anyone. In a video posted to Instagram, Nigam stated, “There were only 4-5 goons who were shouting. In fact, thousands of people were stopping them… Kannadigas are very nice people. Don’t think there’s any wave or movement; there are always a few bad people everywhere.”
He also addressed the sensitive nature of recent national events, referencing the tragic Pahalgam incident to highlight the need for unity and mutual respect.
As of now, the investigation remains ongoing, with the singer expected to provide a formal statement in response to the allegations.
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