FIR Against Sonu Nigam Over Alleged Provocative Remarks at Bengaluru Concert After Kannada Song Demand

New Delhi: An FIR has been lodged against singer Sonu Nigam following accusations of making inflammatory remarks against the Kannadiga community during a recent concert in Bengaluru.

The complaint was filed by Dharmaraj A, president of the Bengaluru city district unit of Karnataka Rakshana Vedike an organization that promotes Kannada interests. According to the complaint, Nigam made “objectionable and emotionally provocative” comments during a musical event held on April 25 and 26 at East Point College of Engineering and Technology, Virgonagar.

The complaint alleges that Nigam’s remarks not only hurt the sentiments of the Kannadiga community but also risked inciting discord among different linguistic groups in Karnataka. “A video of Shri Sonu Nigam’s statement has gone viral, causing widespread outrage among millions of Kannadigas across the state,” the complaint noted.

The controversy arose when a fan at the event repeatedly urged Nigam to sing a Kannada song. The singer reportedly declined the request, stating the fan was being aggressive. He then made a statement referencing the Pahalgam terror attack, which drew widespread criticism. Nigam said, “Yahi kaaran hai, Pahalgam mein jo hua hai na. Yahi kaaran hai jo kar rahe ho, jo kiya tha na abhi. Dekho toh kaun saamne khada hai.”

The comparison sparked backlash not only from the Kannada-speaking community but also from social media users nationwide, who denounced the remarks.

Police have registered the case under Sections 351(2), 352(I), and 353 of the Indian Penal Code and have begun an investigation. The incident has added to ongoing discussions about linguistic sensitivity and public conduct at cultural events.