The Karnataka Rakshana Vedike (KRV) has urged the Bengaluru City Police Commissioner to deny permission for singer Sonu Nigam’s concert in the city on October 24. The group says the singer insulted Kannadigas with a remark made last year, and it has warned of statewide protests if the show goes ahead.
KRV’s letter to the police commissioner
According to the ANI report, in a letter submitted by State President TA Narayana Gowda, the organisation said Sonu Nigam had insulted Kannadigas by comparing their language pride to the Pahalgam terror attack. It argued that he should not be allowed to perform in the city.
The remark that triggered the row
According to KRV, Sonu Nigam was performing at East Point College in Bengaluru in April 2025 when a student asked for a Kannada song. The singer allegedly replied, “Kannada, Kannada, Kannada, this is the reason the Pahalgam incident (terror attack) happened.”KRV called the statement highly objectionable, irresponsible and an insult to the self-respect of Kannadigas. “Is asking for a Kannada song a crime? Who gave Sonu Nigam the right to compare love for Kannada language to a terrorist attack?” the letter questioned.The outfit said its Bengaluru Urban District Unit President, Dharmaraj TA, had already filed a complaint at Avalahalli Police Station on May 2, 2025, seeking legal action. “Kannadigas have not forgotten this wound,” the letter stated.
Concert details
KRV said Sonu Nigam is scheduled to perform as part of ‘The Revolution India Tour’ at 7 PM on October 24 at Bhartiya Mall of Bengaluru on Thanisandra Main Road. The event is organised by ITW Playworx. The group warned that allowing the concert would be another insult to Kannadiga pride and could lead to public unrest and large-scale protests. It added that maintaining public peace is the responsibility of the police.
KRV’s five demands
Do not grant permission for the October 24 concert.If permission has already been given, revoke it after reviewing public anger and possible law and order issues.Review the status of the earlier complaint against Sonu Nigam and take action as per law.Take seriously statements that allegedly insult Kannada language pride and create tension between linguistic communities.Consult the organisers and concerned authorities to prevent law and order problems.
Warning of statewide protests
KRV said it would launch intense statewide protests if permission is granted for the concert. It added that the responsibility for any escalation would lie with those who ignored what it described as its legitimate demand.
