Indore venue directed to bar four songs at Dosanjh concert

Indore’s District Child Protection Officer has directed the venue hosting Diljit Dosanjh’s November 15 concert to exclude four songs, citing concerns about their potential effect on children and a 2019 court order on songs glorifying alcohol, drugs or violence.

The songs named in the directive are “Patiala Peg,” “5 Tara Theke,” “Jeb Vicho Feem” and “Jatt Fire Karda.” The notice was sent to the concert venue’s management after a complaint by Chandigarh-based Dr Panditrao Dharenavar, according to officials.

The officer’s letter said children aged five and older would be allowed to attend and expressed concern that the songs could adversely affect them. It cited a July 22, 2019, order by the Punjab and Haryana High Court directing police in Punjab, Haryana and Chandigarh to ensure that songs glorifying liquor, wine, drugs or violence were not played, including at live performances.

Dharenavar asked authorities to bar the four songs even if Dosanjh altered their lyrics. His complaint also sought restrictions on the singer inviting children onto the stage and wearing crossed silver bullet belts, known as bandoliers, or dummy metallic cartridges. Officials said the venue directive...