Punjab Women’s Commission Summons Karan Aujla, Honey Singh Over 'Misogynistic' Lyrics in their recent albums

The Punjab State Women’s Commission has taken action against Punjabi singers Yo Yo Honey Singh and Karan Aujla over their latest album songs. The commission claims that some of the lyrics and visuals in their recent tracks show women in a bad light and promote disrespectful ideas.

Chairperson Raj Lali Gill spoke to the media and said that after going through complaints and the public’s reactions, the commission decided to write to the state’s Director General of Police (DGP) and asked for quick action to be taken. The commission believes the lyrics in songs by both artists are harmful and disrespectful towards women, and could negatively affect social values.

Lyrics Called 'Disrespectful'

Chairperson Gill pointed out that the songs used words and scenes that seem very careless and offensive. She mentioned that many artists talk about respecting their mothers in public events, yet go on to use abusive or vulgar words in their songs. She questioned why artists play this “double role”—showing respect in one place and disrespect in another—just to gain more views or make money.

She stressed that such songs have a strong effect on the minds of young listeners. According to her, singers should think about the impact they have on society and not just focus on entertaining or making profits. She added that they have a responsibility towards the values they spread among people, especially children.

Commission Demands Apology

The chairperson further said that she had contacted both the DGP and the Bureau of Investigation (BOI) and asked them to summon the singers. Even though she is aware that the singers are not in India at the moment, she insisted they should still be reached out to and asked to explain themselves.

Gill added that both artists should appear before the authorities, give a proper explanation, and apologize. She also demanded that the objectionable lyrics be changed. Only after these steps will the commission decide on what action to take next.

Songs Under Review

One of the songs being questioned is Karan Aujla’s track “MF Gabhru” from his new album P-Pop Culture. Even though the song has become popular, it has been called “inappropriate” and “misogynistic” by the commission. Similarly, Honey Singh’s song “Millionaire,” which was released in August 2024 as a part of his comeback album Glory, has also been criticized for using language that is disrespectful towards women. Karan Aujla’s album P-Pop Culture was released under Warner Music Canada and Warner Music India. It is described as a mix of international pop and Punjabi hip-hop. The album has two parts—one showing emotional and softer Punjabi pop, and the other filled with strong beats and bold lyrics typical of Punjabi hip-hop.

Earlier this year, Aujla worked with American band OneRepublic on the track “Tell Me.” He first became popular with songs like “Yaarian Ch Fikk,” “Unity,” “Alcohol 2,” and “Lafaafe.” He gained widespread attention in 2018 with the track “Don’t Worry.” In 2023, he contributed the hit song “Tauba Tauba” for the Bollywood movie Bad Newz, starring Vicky Kaushal. Honey Singh, who is also known as Hirdesh Singh, recently gained praise for his documentary Yo Yo Honey Singh: Famous. The film won Best Documentary at the IIFA Digital Awards held in Jaipur during the 25th edition of IIFA. Directed by Mozez Singh and produced by Sikhya Entertainment, the documentary shows the personal and professional journey of the rapper—his rise to fame, challenges, and past controversies.