In a dramatic turn of events that has sent shockwaves through the Punjabi music industry, the Punjab State Women’s Commission has launched an official inquiry into superstar singers Karan Aujla and Yo Yo Honey Singh. The commission has taken suo motu cognizance of allegedly derogatory lyrics in their songs and issued summons for both artists to appear before it on Monday, August 11, 2025. This bold move comes with a formal letter to the state’s Director General of Police (DGP), urging immediate investigation and a detailed report on the issue.
At the center of the storm is Aujla’s newly released track "MF Gabhru," which has racked up a staggering 34 million views in under a week. Despite its commercial success, the song has drawn sharp criticism for lyrics that are being called out as misogynistic and degrading to women. While the spotlight shines on Aujla's new release, attention has also pivoted to Honey Singh’s older track "Millionaire," which the commission says contains similarly problematic language. Both artists are now under intense scrutiny from not just the authorities, but also the public.
Commission Chairperson Raj Lali Gill did not mince words in her statement. In her letter to the DGP, she condemned the portrayal of women in both songs, calling it a violation of dignity and a propagation of disrespectful stereotypes. Gill stressed that lyrics such as those in question don’t merely entertain—they influence. The letter asserts that the tracks promote harmful, sexist narratives, and urges law enforcement to determine if any legal boundaries have been crossed.
What makes this case particularly significant is the message it sends about the intersection of pop culture and social responsibility. Music, especially in a region as culturally vibrant as Punjab, holds immense power. The Commission emphasized that this power must be wielded with caution, not used to demean or trivialize the lived realities of women. This action isn't just about a few offensive lyrics—it’s a broader pushback against what many view as a growing trend of casual sexism in mainstream music.
For the artists involved, this could be a watershed moment. Karan Aujla, known for his lyrical swagger and cultural reach, now faces potentially career-altering consequences. Yo Yo Honey Singh, already no stranger to controversy, finds himself once again under fire for lyrical content that critics argue glorifies misogyny and objectification. Their responses, and the decisions they make in the coming days, could shape not only their public images but also the future of accountability in the entertainment industry.
As August 11 approaches, the public waits with bated breath. Will the artists defend their work as artistic freedom, or will they issue apologies and revisions? Will the police find grounds for legal action, or will this be another flash in the pan? One thing is clear: the Punjab Women’s Commission is drawing a line in the sand, and this time, the industry might have to listen.