A formal complaint has been lodged against singer Sonu Nigam at Avalahalli Police Station under Sections 352(1), 352(2), and 353 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The incident occurred during a live concert at East Point College in Virgonagar, Bengaluru. According to authorities, an FIR is expected to be registered within 24 hours.

Section 352(1) and 352(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) address intentional insults with the intent to provoke a breach of peace.

Singer’s outburst over fan’s Kannada song request

The controversy began when a fan from the audience requested Nigam to sing a Kannada song. Perceiving the request as rude, the singer reacted sharply on stage. In his response, Nigam said, “I had started singing Kannada songs even before he was born,” adding, “This is why the Pahalgam attack happened — for such kind of an attitude. At least see who is in front of you before making such demands.”

The comparison to the recent Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed 26 lives, drew widespread criticism and was seen as insensitive and unnecessary. His remarks triggered outrage both on social media and among local Kannada groups.

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Protest planned against East Point College

In response to the incident, a protest is scheduled to be held tomorrow against East Point College, where the concert took place. Protesters are demanding accountability from the institution for allowing such remarks to be made on campus.

What Sonu Nigam said in his defence?

Despite the backlash, Sonu Nigam defended his ties with Karnataka and its language. He emphasized his long-standing relationship with Kannada music and expressed deep respect for his fans in the state. “Whenever I perform here, I feel like I’m with family,” Nigam said. “Even abroad, I make it a point to sing at least one Kannada song.”

Nigam, who gained significant popularity in the Kannada film industry with hit songs in movies like Mungaru Male (2006), Milana (2007), and Gaalipata (2008), reiterated that the outburst was not a reflection of his views on Kannada culture but rather a reaction to what he perceived as disrespect.