Pakistan Connection Alleged in Haryana's Gun Culture Song Ban Controversy

A new dimension has emerged in the ongoing controversy over banned gun culture songs in Haryana, with allegations of Pakistani involvement. Gajendra Phogat, Officer on Special Duty (OSD) to Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini and Chairman of the state's Publicity Cell, has claimed that artists singing gun culture songs in Haryana are receiving funding from Pakistan through Punjab connections.

According to Phogat, these singers are being paid Rs 15 lakh each to promote gun culture. "Those singing about gun culture have no concern for Haryana's culture or the younger generation. They only care about money and filling their own coffers," said Phogat in a conversation with a media house. 

Strategic Attempt to Reach Delhi

Phogat made a serious allegation that Pakistan aims to reach Delhi but is encountering Haryana in the path. "Pakistan wants to reach Delhi, but Haryana stands in between. That's why they are promoting gun culture in Haryana through Punjab's music companies to create a pathway to Delhi," he claimed.

The controversy erupted after the state government recently banned nine Haryanvi songs citing promotion of gun culture. Seven of these songs belong to a single artist, Masoom Sharma. 

Pattern of Destabilization

Elaborating on his claims, Phogat outlined what he described as a systematic approach by Pakistan. "Pakistan first sold drugs in Punjab. Then they gave money to sell guns. When that didn't work, they started paying artists to create songs promoting gun culture," he stated.

Artists Criticized for Abandoning Haryana Culture

Phogat also criticized Haryanvi artists for imitating Punjab's style. "Many artists have set up studios in Mohali. Several have even started living in Zirakpur and Mohali. These artists no longer have any connection with Haryana. They don't want to convey any message; they just want to make money," he said. 

Background of the Controversy

Gajendra Phogat came into the spotlight after Haryana banned songs promoting gun culture. On Holi, Haryanvi singer Masoom Sharma went live on social media and claimed that officials in the government's publicity cell were behind the ban on his songs. While Sharma didn't specifically name Phogat, his remarks were widely interpreted as being directed at him.

The ban on gun culture songs is part of the Haryana government's efforts to curb the glorification of weapons and violence in popular music, which they believe is negatively influencing youth in the state.