KD song row: Sanjay Dutt apologises to women's panel, to fund education of 50 girls

Actor Sanjay Dutt appeared before the National Commission for Women (NCW) on April 27 in connection with a summons over alleged obscenity in the song Sarke Chunar Teri Sarke from his upcoming film, KD: The Devil. The actor apologised during the hearing and maintained that he had no involvement in the song’s lyrical or creative aspects.

As per ANI, according to submissions made before the Commission, Dutt said that he had no prior knowledge or control over the song’s lyrics, translation, composition or final presentation. He added that his role was limited to performing as an actor under contractual obligations.

The actor appeared with his legal team led by Advocate Hemant Shah to tender his apology, and emphasised his respect for the dignity of women and societal values.

As part of his response, Dutt also made a voluntary commitment to sponsor the education of 50 girls from tribal communities in Nagpur, Maharashtra, for the upcoming academic year. He assured the Commission that compliance would be reported within three months.

Through his counsel, the 66-year-old actor further said that he would incorporate safeguards in his future projects to ensure that no work associated with him disrespects women, children or any individual.

Speaking to the media after the hearing, Advocate Hemant Shah said, "Sanjay Dutt today appeared before the National Commission for Women and out of his utmost regard for women and for the Commission, he said that he was not aware of the wordings. But still, without prejudice, he has offered an apology, and he has also voluntarily offered to sponsor education for 50 children from the tribal community. He said when it was recorded, it was recorded in some other language."

The actor, represented by his team of lawyers all through the proceedings, was seen leaving the Commission premises after cooperating with the inquiry.

About the controversy

The song, Sarke Chunar, recently sparked controversy over its allegedly vulgar lyrics and choreography, drawing widespread criticism online. The matter escalated when the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting informed Parliament that the song had been banned. Following the backlash, the makers removed the Hindi version from YouTube.

Sarke Chunar is the Hindi version of the Kannada original song, Sarse Ninna, which features in the upcoming Kannada film, KD: The Devil, directed by Prem and starring Dhruv Sarja.

KD: The Devil is scheduled for release on April 30.