NCW Summons Makers and Stars of ‘Tateeree’ and ‘Sarke Chunar’ Amid Obscenity Backlash
The National Commission for Women (NCW) has taken serious action against the creators and performers associated with two controversial songs — “Tateeree” and “Sarke Chunar” — after widespread media criticism and concerns about alleged obscenity, vulgarity and inappropriate content. The commission’s move reflects growing public and institutional scrutiny over how women are depicted in music videos and online media.
Summons Issued: Who Is Called and When?
In a post shared on X (formerly Twitter), the NCW stated that the content of both songs “prima facie appears to be objectionable” and possibly violates provisions under the newly implemented Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS)—India’s updated criminal code—as well as other laws including the Information Technology Act, the Indecent Representation of Women (Prohibition) Act, 1986, and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
‘Tateeree’ Summons
- Badshah – singer and lyricist of Tateeree
- Mahi Sandhu – director
- Hiten – producer
They have been asked to appear before the NCW on March 25, 2026, at 12:30 PM with relevant documents. The notice warns that failure to appear could lead to legal action under applicable laws.
‘Sarke Chunar’ Summons
- Nora Fatehi – actor
- Sanjay Dutt – actor
- Venkat K Narayana – producer
- Kiran Kumar – director
They are scheduled to appear on March 24, 2026. The NCW’s summons notes that the song’s lyrics and visuals appear sexually suggestive and objectionable, potentially violating the BNS, IT Act and POCSO Act.
Background of the Song Controversies
The ‘Tateeree’ Issue
The controversy around Badshah’s Tateeree gained momentum upon its release, after numerous viewers complained that its lyrics and visuals were inappropriate and offensive. The song drew particular criticism for seemingly featuring women in school uniforms, which many believed suggested minors in a sexualised context. In response to the backlash, the video was taken down from platforms, and Badshah issued an apology, stating he had no intention of offending anyone and rooted the song in his cultural background and hip-hop style.
Prior to the NCW action, the Haryana State Commission for Women had asked Badshah to appear for a hearing — but he reportedly failed to do so, leading the commission to direct local police to arrest him, seize his passport and potentially ban his shows across the state. Multiple FIRs were also registered in relation to the song.
The ‘Sarke Chunar’ Row
The song Sarke Chunar Teri Sarke from the Kannada film KD: The Devil, featuring Nora Fatehi and Sanjay Dutt, went viral and sparked intense criticism. Many objected to its lyrics, choreography and suggestive content, prompting official complaints to authorities.
Amid the controversy, actress Nora Fatehi publicly clarified that she had shot the original version of the song in Kannada three years ago and that she was unaware of the Hindi version’s lyrics and presentation. She has also claimed that elements of the song’s visuals may have included AI usage without her informed consent, and stressed that she raised her concerns once she became aware of the content.
The backlash intensified to the point where the Union Government officially banned the song, with Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting Ashwini Vaishnaw stating in the Lok Sabha that “freedom of speech cannot be absolute,” signalling a firm stance on content deemed offensive to social norms and public decency.
Another singer associated with the Sarke Chunar track, Mangli, apologised and said a “corrected version” of the song would be released soon amid the public uproar.
Legal and Social Implications
The NCW’s action spotlights ongoing debates around content regulation on digital platforms. Digital media currently does not require certification from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) — a point clarified by CBFC chief Prasoon Joshi — creating regulatory gaps that have been highlighted by controversies like this one.
The involvement of laws such as the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which replaced the Indian Penal Code in mid‑2024 to modernise and consolidate criminal offences in India, indicates the seriousness with which authorities are approaching allegations of obscenity and sexual content.
What Happens Next?
The NCW has stated that further action will depend on responses received during the hearings scheduled later this month. Failure to appear or comply with the summons could lead to legal consequences under the cited provisions. Public and industry responses continue to be mixed, with many debating the balance between creative freedom, social responsibility and content regulation in the digital age.
