Threat to Women, Children and Harmony: Bihar Orders Crackdown on Obscene Songs

The Bihar government has directed officials across the state to take strict action against the playing and broadcasting of obscene songs , double-meaning content , and casteist songs at public places and social gatherings, warning that such material is harming social harmony and public order.

In a letter to the Home Department, Art and Culture Department Secretary Pranav Kumar instructed district administrations and police authorities to intensify enforcement against songs that promote obscenity, hatred, or caste-based divisions. The communication was sent to all district magistrates, senior superintendents of police, superintendents of police, and other senior officials.

The letter noted that objectionable songs are being openly played at markets, public places, vehicles, marriage functions, and cultural programmes across Bihar. According to the department, instead of encouraging mutual respect and brotherhood, such content is fueling social unrest , hostility, bitterness, and even violent incidents.

Art and Culture Minister Pramod Kumar said these songs create discomfort among the public, particularly women and children, and damage Bihar’s social and cultural environment. He stressed that preserving the dignity of the state’s folk traditions, languages, and cultural heritage is essential, describing the issue as a serious social issue affecting society at large.

The latest directive builds on a statewide crackdown launched in February ahead of Holi, when Bihar Police ordered a special campaign against vulgar Bhojpuri, Magahi, Maithili, and other regional songs played in buses, auto-rickshaws, trains, markets, and public spaces. Deputy Chief Minister and Home Minister Samrat Choudhary had then termed the issue a social problem that threatens women’s dignity and negatively affects children’s mental well-being. Police were instructed to register cases under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita against violators.

The controversy has remained in focus for years. Congress MLA Pratima Kumari raised the matter in the Bihar Assembly in 2023, prompting assurances of action from the government. In 2025, actor Neetu Chandra also called for stronger measures against vulgar Bhojpuri and Hindi songs, arguing that such content tarnishes Bihar’s cultural image.