Famous singer Sonu Nigam has publicly apologized to the people of Karnataka. This apology has been revealed after the FIR lodged against him. In the FIR, he is accused of making objectionable remarks about the Kannada community. The comment was made during a concert held in Bangalore on 25–26 April.
Posting his apology on Instagram, Sonu Nigam wrote, “Sorry Karnataka. My love is greater than my ego. I will always love you.”
The apology came to light when the Bengaluru Rural Police issued a notice to them and directed them to appear before the investigating officer within a week.
The FIR was lodged at Avallly police station on 3 May. This complaint was lodged by Dharmaraj A. He is the chairman of the Bengaluru City unit of Karnataka Rakshan Vedike. In the complaint, Sonu Nigam has been accused that he had made such objectionable and emotionally inflammatory remarks. Due to which the sentiments of the Kannada community were hurt and there was an atmosphere of spreading hatred among linguistic groups in the state. In the FIR, allegations are made under Section 351 (2), 352 (1), and 353 of the Indian Penal Code.
A video of Sonu Nigam’s statements in this program has gone viral on social media. Many Kannada activists and political groups are protesting about this.
Significantly, this whole matter has come up at a time when the language dispute over the issue of ‘Kannada vs. Hindi’ is at its peak in Karnataka. There has been a demand for priority to the local language Kannada in the state for a long time. Many Kannada organizations and political parties have alleged that Hindi and other languages are being promoted excessively. Due to which local culture and language are being marginalized.
The controversy has increased in this backdrop over Sonu Nigam’s alleged comment. Many people have considered it an attack on linguistic Asmita. Kannada supporters say this statement is against the dignity of the community. According to him, when an outsider says this from a public platform, it hurts people’s feelings. It can also harm social harmony.
Sonu Nigam also has a big fanbase in Karnataka. He is famous for popular Bollywood songs like “Abhi Mein Mein Mein Kahin Kahin” and “Sapna Jahan”.
