New Delhi, April 12 (IANS) The Haryana State Commission for Women has taken cognisance of a controversy involving Haryanvi singer Masoom Sharma over the alleged use of abusive and objectionable language during a college event in Dehradun, officials said on Sunday.

Commission Chairperson Renu Bhatia has issued a formal notice summoning the singer to appear before the panel on April 18 at 11 a.m. at its office in Haryana’s Panchkula.

The notice, sent via email, directs Masoom Sharma to present himself in person and submit an explanation regarding the incident.

According to the Commission, the alleged misconduct took place during a recent programme at DAV College Dehradun, where the singer is accused of using inappropriate language and displaying conduct considered unbecoming of a public figure.

The Commission noted that such behaviour, if established, raises serious concerns about maintaining dignity, decency and respect towards women in public spaces, especially within educational institutions.

Invoking its powers under the Haryana State Commission for Women Act, 2012, particularly Sections 10(1)(f) and 10(1)(h), the panel has sought to examine the matter in detail.

The notice warns that failure to appear before the Commission on the scheduled date may invite appropriate action under the relevant provisions of the Act.

The incident has triggered a wider debate over the conduct of performers at college events, with several stakeholders calling for stricter guidelines to ensure decorum during public programmes held on campuses.

Amid mounting criticism, Masoom Sharma issued a public apology on Instagram, saying that the situation escalated due to disturbances and provocation before the event.

He said that his reaction was not intentional and expressed regret over any offence caused.

However, the apology has done little to quell the controversy, with criticism continuing across social media and other platforms.

Sources said that this is not the first time the singer has faced allegations regarding his conduct at public events, which has intensified scrutiny in the present case.

The Commission is expected to review all available evidence, including video footage and eyewitness accounts, before arriving at a conclusion.

Further action in the matter will depend on the findings of the inquiry and the response submitted by the singer during his appearance before the panel.

–IANS

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