BiharPolice – Statewide Action Planned to Curb Obscene Songs Before Holi Celebrations

BiharPolice – Authorities in Bihar have initiated a state-level campaign targeting the public broadcast of songs containing explicit or suggestive lyrics, citing growing concerns over public decency and safety. The directive was confirmed by Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary, who stated that the administration considers such content a social challenge that negatively influences children and creates discomfort for women in public settings. The action is being rolled out in the run-up to the Holi festival, a period when music and public celebrations are widely observed across the state.

Police Units Directed to Launch Preventive Campaign

Officials confirmed that all district police departments have received instructions to begin a coordinated enforcement drive. The campaign aims to identify and take action against individuals or groups playing objectionable songs at public events and in commercial and passenger vehicles, including buses, trucks, and auto-rickshaws. Authorities intend to apply relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita to individuals found violating the directive.

According to the state government, a circular outlining the enforcement strategy has already been distributed to district-level law enforcement officers and senior police administrators. The instructions emphasize preventive monitoring, particularly in locations where large public gatherings are expected during Holi celebrations.

Concerns Over Public Safety and Social Impact

The government has linked the campaign to concerns about the impact of vulgar music on social behavior. Officials believe that explicit song lyrics played in open public areas often lead to embarrassment and discomfort, particularly for women and families participating in community celebrations. Authorities have also raised apprehensions that repeated exposure to such content may have a harmful psychological influence on children and young listeners.

The enforcement campaign is expected to remain active throughout the festival period, with local police tasked with identifying offenders and taking swift legal action. Senior officials have indicated that strict penalties will be imposed on individuals or organizations that fail to comply with the directive.

Government Reiterates Commitment to Cultural Sensitivity

State leadership has reiterated that the campaign is designed to maintain cultural harmony and ensure that festival celebrations remain respectful and inclusive. Law enforcement agencies have been instructed to focus on awareness and monitoring, along with legal enforcement where necessary. The administration has urged event organizers, transport operators, and local communities to cooperate with the directive and promote responsible public celebrations.

Authorities have also indicated that the campaign is part of broader efforts to improve public safety during major festivals, when crowd gatherings and increased public activity often require heightened vigilance.

Issue Previously Raised in Legislative Assembly

The subject of objectionable song content was earlier discussed in the Bihar Legislative Assembly in 2023. During a session held in early March that year, Congress legislator Pratima Kumari raised concerns about the widespread promotion of double-meaning and obscene songs at public events. She had urged the government to introduce stronger enforcement measures to address the issue.

At the time, the state administration assured legislators that appropriate steps would be taken to prevent the public circulation of such content. The current enforcement drive appears to follow through on that earlier assurance, with authorities now implementing structured action ahead of a major public festival.

Focus on Compliance During Festive Season

Officials have emphasized that the campaign is not intended to restrict celebrations but to ensure that festivities are conducted responsibly. Police departments across Bihar are expected to intensify monitoring of public venues, transport routes, and event locations throughout the Holi period. The administration has encouraged citizens to report violations and cooperate with law enforcement agencies to maintain a safe and respectful festive environment.