Delhi High Court Orders Immediate Takedown of Honey Singh–Badshah Song ‘Volume 1’ Over Obscene Lyrics | Court Calls Content Derogatory to Women

In a significant ruling, the Delhi High Court has ordered the immediate removal of a controversial 2000s song linked to Yo Yo Honey Singh and Badshah. The court termed the track “grossly vulgar, obscene, and derogatory towards women,” directing all platforms to take it down without delay.

Court Slams Lyrics, Calls It Unacceptable

The bench of Justice Purushaindra Kumar Kaurav observed that the lyrics of the song titled “Volume 1”, released under the “Mafia Mundeer” label, were so objectionable that even mentioning its title in the order was inappropriate. The court stated that such content cannot be tolerated in a civil society governed by law.

Immediate Removal Ordered Across Platforms

The court directed the singers and any individuals or entities holding rights to the song to immediately remove all URLs. This includes links on platforms such as YouTube, Google, Spotify, and other digital or social media platforms. The order also applies to remixes and alternate versions of the track.

Petition by Hindu Shakti Dal

The case was heard in response to a plea filed by Hindu Shakti Dal, which sought complete removal of the song’s audio and video content from online platforms. The plea highlighted that Honey Singh recently performed parts of the song at a concert, reaffirming its circulation.

‘Conscience of the Court Shaken’

After reviewing the lyrics privately, the court described the case as one of the rare instances where its conscience was “shaken to the core.” It emphasized that the content was dehumanizing, ridiculing women and devoid of any artistic or social value.

Freedom of Expression Not Absolute

The court made it clear that freedom of speech cannot be used as a shield to justify content that violates basic standards of decency. It noted that such material, easily accessible to minors on public platforms, cannot be allowed under the guise of artistic expression.

Further Action and Next Hearing

The petitioner has been granted permission to submit additional links of the song, including remixes, to authorities. The Union Government has assured that necessary action will be taken upon receiving complaints. The matter is scheduled for further hearing on May 7.

Disclaimer: This article is based on court proceedings and publicly available information. The case is currently under judicial consideration, and further developments may follow.