BIGG BOSS in national anthem row

Reality show Bigg Boss 6 hosted by Salman Khan is in trouble with the Delhi high court for "commercially exploiting" the national anthem. The court has directed the central government to act upon the allegations. HT reports.

Reality show Bigg Boss 6 hosted by Bollywood star Salman Khan is in trouble with the Delhi high court for "commercially exploiting" the national anthem.



The court on Wednesday was listening to a public interest litigation that said the familiar high baritone voice of 'Bigg Boss' asked audience in several theatres in Delhi to stand up for the national anthem before the start of a movie or in between and it amounted to "sheer commercial exploitation of the national anthem and hurting the sentiments of the citizens of India".



"In the wake of serious allegations leveled by the petitioner that the national anthem is disrespected, we direct the Central government to treat this PIL as a representation and the grievances will be dealt with in accordance with the law. Necessary action would be taken by the concerned ministry against the respondents within a week," said the bench.



"The allegations will be looked into and action will be taken", Additional Solicitor General Rajeev Mehra representing the Centre told the Bench headed by chief justice D Murugesan.

Petitioner Jeetender Gupta said he found the same advertisement issued by the TV channel in two theatres where he had gone to watch a film.



The PIL sought the court to direct the Centre to prevent the TV channel as well as the theatres from violating the various provisions of the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act and also the Emblems and Names (prevention of improper use) Act.