Rohan Umak
Volume 1 controversy: The Delhi High Court (HC) on Thursday directed rappers Honey Singh and Badshah to remove their controversial track, Volume 1 from all online platforms with immediate effect, calling it grossly vulgar and deeply offensive. Notably, the track was recorded in the mid-2000s, and the court observed that its lyrics are ‘patently obscene’ as well as derogatory towards women. The bench said the track undermines both artistic values as societal norms.
Track normalises objectification of women, says HC
The court observed that the track’s content went beyond mere offensiveness. It noted that the lyrics appeared designed to normalise the portrayal of women as objects of sexual gratification and ridicule. The bench said, “This is one of the rare cases where the conscience of the court is shocked to its absolute core,” adding that such material cannot be shielded under the guise of artistic freedom.
Furthermore, the judges emphasised that allowing such songs to remain accessible online, particularly to minor children, would be unacceptable in a civilised society.
Volume 1 controversy: Platforms directed to act with immediate effect
The court then issued interim directions to all the platforms, mandating the removal of all URLs hosting the track. This includes streaming platforms such as Spotify. It also instructed all parties claiming rights to the song to ensure that it is taken down at the earliest. The bench said, “No civilised society can permit such content to remain freely available or be monetised.”
It is noteworthy that the ruling comes at a time when both artists have been making headlines for separate controversies and an ongoing public feud. Honey Singh and Badshah began their singing careers as part of the rap collective Mafia Mundeer, alongside artists like Raftaar, Ikka and Lil Golu. The group delivered several popular tracks before disbanding in 2012 following internal disputes.
Badshah recently faced backlash for ‘Tateeree’
The controversy surrounding Volume 1 has surfaced at a time when Badshah recently drew backlash for his latest Haryanvi track, ‘Tateeree.’ Multiple women commissions, as well as the police initiated legal proceedings against him for the alleged explicit content shown in the song. Later, the rapper issued a public apology, saying he had no intention of hurting sentiments.
