The Karnataka Assembly engaged in a debate regarding the use of DJ music at cultural and religious festivals in the state. The Congress-led government sought support from the opposition BJP to enforce a ban on DJ music. Labour Minister Santosh Lad expressed concerns over the increasing reliance on DJ music during various celebrations, stating that it has become a significant issue.
Minister Lad highlighted that the presence of DJ music during festivities has become problematic, with processions not moving forward without item songs played on DJs. He emphasized the need for a complete ban on loud DJ music, suggesting that cultural programs should replace them. Minister for Kannada and Culture Shivaraj Tangadgi supported the proposal, indicating that the government would take action if the BJP cooperated.
BJP MLA S.N. Channabasappa objected to the discussion, arguing that the Assembly should not debate ministers’ personal preferences. IT and BT Minister Priyank Kharge pointed out that DJ culture is a recent phenomenon and stressed the importance of monitoring the songs played during festivals. Channabasappa then raised the issue of banning the Azaan, claiming it was prohibited by the Supreme Court.
Senior BJP MLA S. Suresh Kumar concurred that DJ music and item songs do not align with Karnataka’s cultural heritage. He warned about the adverse effects of loud music on individuals with heart pacemakers and emphasized the need to control sound pollution. Speaker Khader announced that a detailed discussion on the matter would be allowed in the future.
