Varanasi: Folk singer and political satirist Neha Singh Rathore has been booked in Varanasi for allegedly making derogatory remarks about Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi in a recent satire song video.
The FIR was registered at Sigra Police Station following a complaint by Dr Saurabh Maurya, president of the social organisation Sadhana Foundation.
According to the complaint, Rathore referred to the Prime Minister using terms like “coward” and “General Dyer.” It is also alleged that her video was broadcast on Pakistani media channels, which Dr. Maurya claims tarnishes India’s international image.
The FIR cites three sections of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS): Section 197(1)(a): Acts that harm national unity, Section 197(1)(d): Spreading misleading or false statements threatening national cohesion and Section 353(2): Disturbing public order and social harmony.
This incident has sparked discussions on freedom of expression, with supporters defending Rathore’s right to artistic dissent, while critics argue that her language crosses the line between critique and insult. The legal proceedings are likely to draw national attention, especially with general elections approaching.
The singer has a major online presence, with approximately 873,000 YouTube subscribers, 146,700 followers on Twitter, and around 69,000 followers on Instagram.
Rathore is a folk singer and political satirist who sings and composes songs in the Bhojpuri language. She is known for songs with a focus on political and social issues.
