Tateeree row: No end seems to be in sight for Indian rapper and singer Badshah’s legal troubles, as the National Commission for Women (NCW) on Thursday issued summons to him, as well as the directors of his controversial Haryanvi song, ‘Tateeree.’ Notably, backlash had been intensifying against the singer since the song was released on March 1, 2026, as the track allegedly contained lyrics which objectified minor girls and women.
As per reports, the song’s producer Hiten has also been called in by the NCW, alongside the track’s directors Mahi Sandhu and Joban Sandhu. The NCW has issued summons for March 25, 2026, and has directed all the persons concerned to bring relevant documents. The body also emphasised that failure to comply may invite legal action.
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Singer-Rapper Badshah[/caption]
NCW maintains song’s content is objectionable
The Commission maintained the concerns cited earlier by the Haryana State Commission for Women (SCW), stating that the song’s lyrics are objectionable and potentially violate provisions under the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita, the Information Technology (IT) Act and the Indecent Representation of Women (Prohibition) Act, 1986. Taking a suo motu cognisance, the body cited reports from the media, highlighting vulgar and derogatory portrayals in the song.
Haryana SCW orders cops to arrest the singer
Meanwhile, the Haryana SCW has escalated the proceedings in the case, and has issued directives to the police to arrest the artist after he failed to appear before the panel. Haryana SCW chairperson Renu Bhatia said that the police have been instructed to trace and detain Badshah. Notably, multiple First Information Reports (FIRs) had already been registered against Badshah in Haryana’s Panchkula and Jind.
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Haryana SCW chairperson Renu Bhatia[/caption]
What’s wrong with the song?
Authorities alleged that the music video portrays minor girls dressed in school uniforms, abandoning their studies and dancing aboard a Haryana Roadways bus, making lewd gestures. Officials deemed the song’s lyrics derogatory towards women. Badshah announced song’s removal earlier
A few weeks earlier, when the song kicked up a row, Badshah had posted a video message on his official Instagram handle, seeking apology and confirming that the song had been taken down from all digital media platforms. It is noteworthy that the song’s lyrics were written by Badshah, and it blends contemporary rap with regional elements.