PATNA: Bihar Police has ordered a statewide crackdown on vulgar and double-meaning songs, terming them a "social problem" that imperils women's security and has a perverse effect on the psyche of children, Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary said on Thursday.
FIRs will be lodged against those playing vulgar songs in buses, auto-rickshaws, taxis, trains or public places under section 296/79 of Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS). While section 296 deals with 'obscene acts and songs', section 79 deals with 'word, gesture or act intended to insult the modesty of a woman'.
In a statement, Choudhary, who also holds the Home portfolio, said all district police units have been directed to launch a special campaign ahead of Holi against those playing obscene or double-meaning Bhojpuri, Magahi, Maithili, or other such songs.
He said a circular has been issued to all officials concerned and district police chiefs in this regard.
"A special drive will continue across the state ahead of Holi to identify those who indulge in such activities and promote vulgar and double-meaning songs. It becomes embarrassing for women when they hear such vulgar songs in public places. Strict action should be taken against those who are caught violating the directive in this regard," the deputy chief minister said.
Choudhary asserted that playing obscene songs publicly had a negative impact on society and children as such songs also compromise on the safety and dignity of women.
It may be recalled that the issue was raised in the Bihar assembly in 2023. Congress MLA Pratima Kumari had on March 1, 2023, raised the issue in the House and demanded action against those promoting obscene and double-meaning songs.
The state government had then assured legislators that strict action would be taken.
Last year too, the Bihar police had ordered a crackdown on the public broadcast of vulgar Bhojpuri songs after a song by popular rapper Yo Yo Honey Singh triggered a controversy.
In March 2025, actress Neetu Chandra filed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) in the Patna High Court, seeking a complete ban on "cheap, double-meaning" Bhojpuri and Hindi songs. The petition specifically named singer Yo Yo Honey Singh’s song 'Maniac' for allegedly objectifying women.
(With inputs from PTI)