With Diljit Dosanjh set to perform at Ahmedabad's Narendra Modi Stadium on November 21, questions have been raised over the suitability of certain elements of his concert for young audiences. The District Child Protection Unit (DCPU) has approached the Ahmedabad Police Commissioner, seeking restrictions on songs associated with intoxicants and violence, as well as precautions concerning sound, lighting and stage presentation.
The move came after Chandigarh-based professor Dr. Panditrao Dharenavar submitted a formal representation highlighting concerns about children being allowed to attend the show. According to the DCPU's letter, children above five years of age are permitted entry, prompting the unit to seek measures to ensure their safety.
A major part of the objection relates to four songs — Patiala Peg, 5 Tara Theke, Jeb Vichon Feem Labbiya and Jatt Uthe Fire Karda Jithe Pabandi Hathiyaran Di. The unit has argued that lyrics referring to alcohol, drugs, opium and weapons could send an undesirable message to children and young people. It has also maintained that modifying lyrics during performances may not be sufficient to address the concerns.
The letter goes beyond the choice of songs. It warns that sound levels above 120 decibels and rapidly changing bright lights, including flashing and beam effects, could pose health risks to younger attendees. The authorities have also been asked to ensure that children are not brought onto the stage during the programme.
Bandolier-style accessories also flagged
The DCPU has separately objected to the use of cartridge belts or imitation-bullet bandoliers worn across the chest during stage appearances. According to the unit, such accessories could encourage the glorification of weapons and contribute to the normalisation of violence, particularly among impressionable viewers.
The representation invokes a Punjab and Haryana High Court order dated July 22, 2019, in CWP/27011/2016. The judgment is cited in connection with directions against songs promoting substance abuse and violence.
The DCPU has also referred to the central government's Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, run by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, as part of its argument against content that may promote intoxicants.
The Ahmedabad Police Commissioner has received the unit's request for consideration ahead of the November 21 event. The development follows Dosanjh's recent concerts in Delhi and Bhopal and has brought the issue of child-friendly safeguards at large-scale music events into focus.
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