The Karnataka High Court has granted interim relief to singer Sonu Nigam, directing the police not to initiate any coercive action against him in connection with a case filed over alleged provocative remarks related to language sensitivity. The court, however, advised Nigam to fully cooperate with the ongoing investigation.
The singer had recently approached the High Court seeking quashing of the FIR registered against him following a concert held in Bengaluru in April. During the event, a fan reportedly insisted that he perform only Kannada songs. Nigam, expressing displeasure, stopped singing and stated that he too respects all languages. He further remarked that incidents like this are similar to what transpired in Pahalgam, a statement that drew criticism from several Kannada groups.
In response to a complaint filed by Karnataka Rakshana Vedike’s Bengaluru City Unit president Dharmaraj, a case was registered against the singer. The Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce also announced a ban on Sonu Nigam in the aftermath of the controversy.
Subsequently, Nigam issued a public apology to the people of Karnataka via social media, expressing regret over the unintended offense caused by his remarks.
