NEW DELHI: Indian authorities have cracked down on music that promotes violence, weapons, and gang culture, resulting in 67 songs being removed from major music platforms.
The action comes after concerns arose that such songs were normalizing criminal behavior and violent tendencies among young people. A joint investigation by Haryana’s Special Task Force (STF) and Cyber Unit revealed that many songs glorified gang culture, weapons, and violence, presenting them as symbols of power and pride, which negatively influenced youth.
Following the investigation, Haryana police and the Cyber Unit removed the songs from platforms including YouTube, Spotify, Amazon Music, Gaana, and JioSaavn. Officials stated that this is part of a broader campaign, and further actions are planned.
Haryana DGP Ajay Singhal described the move as essential for society and youth, emphasizing that it aims not only to prevent crime but also to eliminate factors that push young people toward criminal behavior. The STF’s Inspector General Satish Baln highlighted the increasing impact of digital content and noted that artists, lyricists, and creators were advised to avoid promoting violence, weapons, or gang culture.
The STF also claimed successes in disrupting networks linking foreign handlers with terrorism and gangster operations. These songs, which glorified guns, violence, and crime as status symbols, have long faced criticism, and public pressure has now led to their removal from major platforms.
