On Friday, the Haryana State Commission for Women ordered the arrest of rapper Badshah due to his failure to appear before them by the specified deadline. This action is related to the controversial lyrics and visuals in his newly released Haryanvi music video, Tateeree. Chairperson Renu Bhatia had earlier cautioned that severe measures would be taken against him.
The women's commission has issued arrest warrants for Badshah.
Badshah was instructed to present himself before the women's commission by 3 PM on Friday, in response to a notice dated March 6, which required his presence in Panipat. According to PTI, the chairperson informed reporters that she has ordered the seizure of Badshah's passport to prevent him from leaving the country and has called for his arrest.
She told the press, "I have directed the SP of Panipat to detain Badshah wherever he may be and to obtain search warrants." Renu added that the rapper was called to present himself by March 13 in relation to the song "which includes offensive words and language disrespectful to the daughters of Haryana." The chairperson also mentioned that FIRs have been lodged in Panchkula and Jind about this matter.
Renu informed the media that the representatives (lawyers) of Badshah requested the Commission for an extension, which was denied. She also reached out to the National Commission for Women (NCW) with a request to prohibit any Badshah performances in the country.
A lawyer for Badshah informed reporters in Panipat that they had an authorization letter from the rapper and requested additional time since the summons had not been delivered. The lawyer asserted, 'Legally, everyone is entitled to present their case, but that opportunity is not being provided here.'
Badshah's apology and the withdrawal of Tateeree
Following the release of the song Tateeree, Badshah encountered criticism regarding its lyrics and visuals. He posted a video on Instagram, expressing regret for any offense caused and announcing the song's removal.
The Panchkula police have begun the procedure to issue a look-out circular for Badshah to stop him from exiting the country. Additionally, a formal notice has been sent to the rapper, requiring his appearance before the authorities. Multiple police teams have been formed to secure his arrest and are actively conducting raids at various potential sites, according to a statement from the Haryana Police on Saturday.
According to the police, the video shows young girls in school uniforms discarding their school bags to escape from their studies. The term 'Badshala' in the song is said to portray the school setting and education in a misleading and inappropriate way. Additionally, the lyrics contain offensive and derogatory remarks about women and girls, as noted in their statement.
