In a major development that has caught the attention of the music industry, the Delhi High Court has ordered the immediate removal of the controversial track ‘section 1’Mafia Mundir has been associated with rappers Honey Singh and Badshah since their early days as part of the group.
Honey Singh, Badshah face legal trouble over controversial track ‘Volume 1’: Delhi High Court orders immediate removal
The court took a strong stand against the song, saying that its lyrics were extremely inappropriate, objectionable and derogatory towards women. It made it clear that such content has no place in a society that upholds basic standards of decency, especially when it is widely available on digital platforms. Going a step further, the judge underlined the seriousness of the issue by remarking that even the title of the song is so objectionable that it cannot be officially recorded in the court order.
As part of its direction, the court directed both the singers as well as anyone holding rights to the track or its variations to ensure that all links to the song – whether original, remixed, or altered – are immediately removed. This includes removal from social media platforms, streaming services, and any other online location where the track may be available.
The matter came to light after a petition was filed by an organization demanding that the song be removed from major platforms like YouTube, Google and Spotify. The petition also highlighted that Honey Singh had recently performed parts of the song in a concert, thereby strengthening their connection with it.
After privately reviewing the material, the court expressed deep concern that the lyrics were not only obscene but devoid of any meaningful artistic or social value. It found that the song portrays women in a derogatory manner and makes them an object of mockery.
The court also stressed that allowing such content to remain online – where it can be accessed by people of all ages, including minors – cannot be justified in the name of creative freedom. According to the judge, the song crosses all acceptable limits and shows complete disregard for social norms.
Apart from the immediate removal order, notices have been issued to the artistes involved. The petitioner has been allowed to identify more links or versions of the song and share them with the government, which will then ensure their removal from various platforms.
The authorities have assured the court that any complaint regarding the remaining material will be processed expeditiously. The petitioner can also report the newly found links directly through the official complaint systems of the online platforms.
The case is scheduled to be heard again on May 7, as the court continues to monitor compliance with its strict directions.
