Amid the ongoing controversy surrounding the song Sarke Chunar, the Union government has confirmed that the song has been banned. This comes after widespread criticism over its lyrics and visuals. The Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Ashwini Vaishnaw, announced the decision in the Lok Sabha while responding to a question raised by Samajwadi Party MP Anand Bhadouria.
Ashwini Vaishnaw confirms ban on Sarke Chunar
Addressing the questions raised, Vaishnaw said the government had already acted against the song, reiterating that freedom of speech in India is subject to constitutional limits. The minister further emphasised that expression must operate within the framework of reasonable restrictions laid down by the Indian Constitution.
During the discussion, Vaishnaw said, “The song has already been banned,” adding, “I would like to say this clearly that we should follow the reasonable restrictions imposed by the creators of the Constitution of India on freedom of speech.”
The minister further referred to the provisions under Article 19(2) of the Constitution, which permit restrictions on freedom of speech in the interest of public order, decency, morality, and other concerns.
“Freedom of speech cannot be absolute. It has to be in the context of society and culture. We must follow the reasonable restrictions imposed by the creators of the Constitution. And in that, very carefully, in the coming time, the way things are spreading rapidly today through digital means, in that, for the protection of the society, especially for the protection of children, for the protection of women, for the protection of the deprived groups of the society, whatever hard actions should be taken, the government is ready to take them,” Vaishnaw noted.
Controversy surrounding Nora Fatehi`s Sarke Chunar
The controversy erupted after the song featuring actors Nora Fatehi and Sanjay Dutt was released. Critics claimed that the track contained vulgar lyrics and visuals that objectified women. The backlash soon escalated, with several individuals and organisations calling for action against the creators.
Multiple complaints were filed demanding an FIR and removal of the track from circulation, which further intensified public debate just days before the matter was raised in Parliament.
Haryana Women Commission, Karnataka Women Commission, actor-politician Ravi Kishan, actor-politician Kangana Ranaut, and singer Armaan Malik, among others, have expressed disapproval against the track, calling it objectionable.
An advocate has even approached the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) seeking an immediate ban and removal of the song, claiming that its lyrics and visuals are obscene and harmful to minors.
