Bengaluru, March 18 (NationPress) The Karnataka Assembly has engaged in a discussion regarding the use of DJ music during cultural and religious festivals within the state. The Congress-led government is actively seeking the support of the opposition BJP to implement a ban on this trend.

During a dialogue concerning government aid for cultural events at both taluk and district levels, Labour Minister Santosh Lad expressed that the increasing dependence on DJ music during various jayanthis has raised significant concerns.

“The integration of DJ music into jayanthi celebrations has escalated into a considerable issue. Nowadays, processions dedicated to our deities often remain stagnant unless item songs are played on DJs. This phenomenon has become quite distasteful,” Lad stated.

He contended that loud DJ music lacks any authentic cultural value and called for a total ban, regardless of the ruling party. “Instead, we should focus on organizing genuine cultural programs, with funding ranging from Rs 5 lakh to Rs 25 lakh. Currently, some performers demand exorbitant fees, leading to budgets running into crores,” he elaborated.

Minister for Kannada and Culture Shivaraj Tangadgi echoed support for the ban, indicating that the government would take action if the BJP decided to collaborate. “DJ music is causing various issues. If the BJP extends its cooperation, we will proceed with the ban,” he noted.

However, BJP MLA S.N. Channabasappa, who previously questioned the organization of cultural festivals, opposed the discussion, arguing that personal preferences of ministers should not be the subject of Assembly debates.

IT and BT Minister Priyank Kharge remarked that DJ culture is a recent addition and highlighted the necessity to oversee the types of songs played during festivals. “DJ culture was not present in the past. We must scrutinize the nature of songs being played,” he asserted.

At this juncture, Channabasappa suggested banning the Azaan, claiming it had been prohibited by the Supreme Court. Kharge clarified that the Supreme Court had only mandated permissible decibel limits for all sound forms, including Azaan and bhajans. Channabasappa mentioned he would accept this explanation if the government confirmed it had adhered to the court's directives.

Speaker U.T. Khader intervened to clarify that the Supreme Court's ruling applied solely to decibel limits.

Senior BJP MLA S. Suresh Kumar concurred that DJ music and item songs are not representative of Karnataka’s cultural heritage. He also cautioned that loud music could be harmful to individuals with heart pacemakers. “I have witnessed people suffering because of loud music. Children often cover their ears, while organizers show minimal concern, and the police are left powerless. Sound pollution must be addressed,” he stated.

Speaker Khader indicated that the House would be permitted to conduct a thorough discussion on this matter at a future date.