Is Bengaluru Police Team Heading to Mumbai to Record Sonu Nigam's Statement?

Synopsis
A Bengaluru police team is preparing to travel to Mumbai to document Sonu Nigam's statement concerning an FIR linked to his controversial remarks about a Kannada song and its connection to the Pahalgam attack. The unfolding events highlight the sensitive intersection of music, culture, and law in India.
Key Takeaways
- Bengaluru police are investigating remarks made by Sonu Nigam.
- The inquiry will adhere to Karnataka High Court guidelines.
- FIR includes serious allegations under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
- Public backlash has led to calls for an apology.
- Sonu Nigam has expressed remorse for his comments.
Bengaluru, May 17 (NationPress) - A team from the Bengaluru police is set to head to Mumbai to document the statement of renowned singer Sonu Nigam. This action is in response to an FIR that was lodged against him for allegedly connecting the request for a Kannada song to the Pahalgam terror attack, as per police reports on Saturday.
The investigative team will include an Inspector from the Avalahalli Police Station along with two additional officers. Their mission is to interrogate Sonu Nigam, and the entire process will be captured on video. Senior officials have provided the team with precise instructions, ensuring that the inquiry aligns with the guidelines established by the Karnataka High Court.
Previously, the Karnataka High Court had mandated that the police refrain from taking any coercive measures against Sonu Nigam. The court specified that officers could either conduct the questioning via video call or travel to his location for the inquiry.
Earlier, the police dispatched an email notice requesting Sonu Nigam's appearance for questioning. However, the singer responded by filing a petition in the Karnataka High Court to annul the FIR against him.
On May 15, the Karnataka High Court provided relief to Sonu Nigam, instructing the police to avoid any coercive actions in connection with the contentious remarks case.
A bench led by Justice Shivashankar Amarannavar also urged Sonu Nigam to fully cooperate with the ongoing investigation.
An FIR was registered on May 3, citing Sections 351(2) (criminal intimidation), 352 (statements inciting public mischief), and 352(1) (intentional insult with intent to provoke a breach of peace or incite another offence) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
Sonu Nigam sought the Karnataka High Court’s intervention to quash the FIR filed by the Karnataka Police.
It is noteworthy that during an event at the East Point College of Engineering and Technology in Bengaluru, Sonu Nigam was interrupted by an audience member who requested a Kannada song.
In response to the interruption, Nigam stated, "I have performed in various languages, and among them, my finest songs are in Kannada. When I visit Karnataka, I come with immense love and respect. You all have embraced me like family. I always sing Kannada songs upon request. I've been performing in Kannada longer than that particular youth's age. However, I was displeased with the manner in which he shouted 'Kannada, Kannada'. Such behavior can lead to incidents like the Pahalgam attack."
His comments triggered significant backlash, prompting several Kannada organizations to demand an unconditional apology.
Consequently, the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) prohibited him from participating in any professional activities within the Kannada film industry until he issues an apology.
In reaction, Sonu Nigam expressed regret on his Instagram account, saying: "Sorry Karnataka. My love for you transcends my ego. Love you always."