Give List Of Songs Glorifying Weapons So That Action Can Be Taken: High Court To Punjab Govt

The Punjab & Haryana High Court today took a stern stand on the glorification of weapons in songs in Punjab and asked the government to provide a list of such songs so that action can be taken against them.

Justice Harkesh Manuja orally asked, "How many FIRs have been filed against these songs...make a list of these songs and give it to me by evening, so that Union of India can be involved and needful can be done."

The Court also questioned the state counsel on what action has been taken against songs glorifying weapons, to which the state counsel submitted that it lacks authority to ban it.

The development came after the Court had sought comprehensive affidavits from the Punjab Government on details of songs that have been banned or recommended for a ban for promoting the glorification of weapons and violence.

It had also taken strong objection to the widespread use of firearms in public functions and the use of licensed guns to commit crimes in Punjab, observing that "there is no visible change" despite the ban.

The Punjab Government in 2022 had banned the use and display of firearms in public places and on social media and accordingly officers were instructed to conduct surprise visits in the areas falling under their respective jurisdiction.

Previously, the Court had directed the Director General of Police (DGP) to file his own affidavit pertaining to the details of guidelines for issuing arms licenses and action taken to implement the State's order.

However, the Court found that the State failed to file a comprehensive affidavit.

Consequently, the judge directed the DGP Punjab to file a comprehensive affidavit on various details regarding the action taken to stop the glorification of weapons in the State.

Title: GURBHEJ SINGH ALIAS BHEJA VERSUS STATE OF PUNJAB