Pakistani rapper Talha Anjum has been served a legal notice for draping the Indian flag during his concert in Kathmandu last week.
Reports quoted the notice as claiming that the rapper “inflicted widespread outrage, mental anguish, and profound injury to the national, patriotic and religious sentiments of millions of Pakistani citizens both domestically and abroad”.
It further stated that Talha’s actions “exacerbated existing tensions between Pakistan and India, where diplomatic and military relations remain severely strained due to historical conflicts, border disputes and ongoing security concerns”.
The notice demanded an “unconditional public apology” from the rapper, warning that non-compliance would result in filing of an FIR and criminal prosecutions without further notice.
It merits a mention that Talha’s move had earlier this week sparked extreme reactions from people on this side of the border.
Critics reminded him that platforms, including YouTube and Spotify, had removed his tracks on Indian authorities’ orders, and questioned why he chose to show affection to a country where the government has “banned” him.
Responding to the backlash, the 30-year-old rapper, known for his blunt attitude and quick temper, had refused to back down.
“My heart has no place for hate. My art has no borders. If me raising an Indian flag sparks controversy so be it. I will do it again. I will never care about the media, the war mongering governments and their propagandas. Urdu rap is and will always be borderless [sic],” he had said in a post on X.