The Maharashtra Cyber Cell has summoned rapper and singer Yo Yo Honey Singh for the fourth time, directing him to appear before the investigating officer on October 16 for questioning over alleged objectionable remarks made during a television show.
According to a Maharashtra Cyber Cell official, a complaint was lodged against the rapper over his alleged remarks during the show. Singh has reportedly failed to appear despite receiving three previous summonses, citing his presence abroad as the reason for his inability to attend.
The official said that if Singh fails to appear again, the process to issue a Look Out Circular (LOC) against him could also be initiated.
The controversy follows an earlier incident this year when Singh made remarks during a concert in Delhi about having sex in a car during the winter, while also urging people to use condoms and practise safe sex.
The remarks drew criticism, prompting the singer to issue an apology through a video shared on social media.
In his clarification, Singh said a video of his remarks had been edited in a manner that offended several people. He maintained that he had no intention of hurting, insulting or offending anyone.
Explaining the context, Singh said he had recently interacted with a leading gynaecologist and sexologist who discussed concerns about the rising incidence of sexually transmitted diseases among young people due to unprotected sex.
He said the conversation had stayed with him and that, while appearing as a guest on a show hosted by Nanku and Karun, he had attempted to convey the importance of protection to a predominantly Gen Z audience using language familiar to them through the OTT content they watch.
Singh has faced controversies in the past over allegedly objectionable content in some of his songs and remarks made during public performances.
The latest summons requires him to appear before the Maharashtra Cyber Cell on October 16 as the investigation into the complaint continues.