Chandigarh, December 16, 2024 (Yes Punjab News)
Chandigarh has recently found itself under scrutiny for its handling of music shows performed by renowned Punjabi singers. Artists like Diljit Dosanjh, Satinder Sartaaj, and Karan Aujla have openly expressed dissatisfaction with the Chandigarh Administration and Police, citing a lack of proper guidelines, harassment, and mismanagement during their events.
Diljit Dosanjh Calls Out Lack of Structured Guidelines for Shows
During a recent performance, Diljit Dosanjh criticized India for lacking structured government guidelines for organizing music shows. His remarks highlighted the challenges artists face, especially in Chandigarh, where mismanagement and last-minute approvals have become common.
Reports suggest that police officials often demand free passes and force their associates into shows without tickets. Reliable sources claim that over 5,000 passes were demanded from Diljit Dosanjh’s team for his Chandigarh performance.
Satinder Sartaaj’s Experience with Chandigarh Police
Satinder Sartaaj’s team revealed their frustration with Chandigarh Police after their organized and family-friendly shows were disrupted. His team reportedly wrote to the DGP and other officials highlighting police misbehavior but received no response. They also noted instances where unauthorized individuals, allegedly forced in by police, occupied reserved seats, disrupting the audience’s experience.
Due to these recurring issues, Sartaaj’s team has decided not to perform in Chandigarh in the future, a sentiment echoed by the teams of Diljit Dosanjh and Karan Aujla.
Karan Aujla Fined Rs. 1 Crore for Advertising Without Permit
Karan Aujla’s Chandigarh show also faced backlash as the administration fined him over Rs. 1 crore for promoting the event before obtaining the necessary permits. Reports suggest that many departments delay issuing permissions until the last day, allegedly to demand free passes or leverage power over organizers.
Chandigarh Losing Out While International Cities Welcome Punjabi Artists
While Chandigarh’s mismanagement has discouraged artists, cities abroad are extending invitations to Punjabi singers, recognizing the significant economic benefits their concerts bring.
For example, Diljit Dosanjh’s Chandigarh show alone generated over Rs. 2 crore in GST revenue, while Satinder Sartaaj’s ticketed shows paid Rs. 3.80 crore in GST last year through platforms like Book My Show. Mayors and city officials in foreign countries actively encourage these events, knowing they boost local businesses, provide jobs, and generate taxes.
Satinder Sartaaj Appeals for a “One-Window” System
Satinder Sartaaj has appealed to the Punjab government, particularly Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, to establish a “one-window” system. This system would simplify show arrangements by allowing artists to submit a single application while the government handles permits and other formalities.
Sartaaj emphasized the cultural transformation his ticketed shows brought to Punjab, enabling families and women to attend music events in a safe and cordial atmosphere. He pointed out that before this, Punjabi music was often confined to weddings, fairs, or kabaddi tournaments, environments less welcoming for families.
FAQs on Punjabi Artists’ Issues with Chandigarh Administration
1. What are Punjabi singers criticizing about Chandigarh shows?
Punjabi singers have raised concerns about harassment, last-minute permit approvals, demands for free passes, and unauthorized entry into their events by officials.
2. Why did Diljit Dosanjh criticize India’s concert guidelines?
Diljit Dosanjh highlighted the lack of structured government guidelines for music shows, which creates challenges for artists and organizers.
3. What actions have Satinder Sartaaj’s team taken?
Satinder Sartaaj’s team wrote to the Chandigarh Police and administration about mismanagement but received no response. They have decided not to perform in Chandigarh in the future.
4. Why was Karan Aujla fined Rs. 1 crore?
Karan Aujla was fined for promoting his show before obtaining permits, a situation reportedly caused by delayed approvals from authorities.
5. What benefits do Punjabi concerts bring to cities abroad?
Punjabi concerts abroad generate significant revenue through taxes, boost local businesses like hotels and restaurants, and create jobs, making them highly sought after by international city officials.
6. What is the proposed “one-window” system?
The “one-window” system would allow artists to apply for all necessary concert permits through a single application, streamlining the process and reducing harassment.
