Patna, June 16: The Bihar government’s Department of Art and Culture has asked the Home Department to strengthen monitoring and take necessary action against the public broadcast of songs containing obscene, double-entendre and caste-based content, saying such material threatens the state’s cultural values and social harmony.
In a communication sent to the Home Department, the Art and Culture Department expressed concern over the growing use of such songs in public spaces and called for administrative measures to curb their broadcast. The move follows directions from Art and Culture Minister Dr. Pramod Kumar, who has described the issue as a serious challenge to Bihar’s cultural identity and folk traditions.
Department flags impact on social harmony
According to the department, songs containing obscene or caste-oriented content are increasingly being played in markets, public gatherings, vehicles, marriage functions and other social events across Bihar.
Officials said the trend risks damaging the state’s rich folk culture and could contribute to social divisions. The department argued that art and culture should serve as instruments for social cohesion and positive public consciousness rather than becoming platforms for content that promotes hostility or indecency.
The letter stated that the uncontrolled public broadcast of such material is affecting social decorum and cultural values while creating concerns about harmony within communities.
Minister calls for stronger controls
Soon after assuming charge of the Art and Culture Department, Dr. Pramod Kumar publicly raised concerns about the proliferation of songs promoting obscenity, social hatred and caste-based discord.
The minister said Bihar’s cultural heritage, folk languages and folk traditions should be protected from content that undermines their dignity. He directed the concerned authorities to examine the issue and initiate concrete measures to address it.
Following those directions, the department conducted a review before formally approaching the Home Department for intervention.
Concerns over impact on women and youth
The department’s communication also highlighted the potential impact of such content on women, children and young people.
According to the department, songs containing explicit or inflammatory themes can influence the social environment and send inappropriate messages when played in public places. Officials argued that restricting such broadcasts would help preserve cultural standards and protect the reputation of Bihar’s folk arts and linguistic traditions.
The department further stated that maintaining respect for local cultural heritage requires effective action against content considered harmful to social values.
District administrations asked to monitor compliance
As part of the initiative, instructions have also been sent to District Magistrates and Superintendents of Police across Bihar to ensure monitoring at the district level.
The Art and Culture Department has requested the Home Department to examine possible administrative and legal measures that could be used to regulate the public broadcast of such songs and ensure compliance with existing laws and regulations.
Patna Press could not independently verify the extent of the problem cited by the department or whether fresh legal provisions are being considered as part of the proposed action.
What happens next
The Home Department is expected to review the recommendations submitted by the Art and Culture Department and determine the next course of action. Any measures adopted could involve increased monitoring of public events and stricter enforcement of existing regulations governing public broadcasts.
The Bihar government has said it remains committed to protecting the state’s cultural identity, folk traditions and social harmony, while continuing efforts to address content it believes promotes obscenity, division or animosity in society.
