Actor Sanjay Dutt appeared before the National Commission for Women (NCW) on Monday in connection with the Sarke Chunar controversy, which erupted after objections were raised over the alleged vulgar and objectionable portrayal of women in the song “Sarke Chunar Teri Sarke”.

The hearing was held before the Commission under the chairpersonship of NCW chief Vijaya Rahatkar. According to officials, Sanjay Dutt submitted a written apology and expressed regret for any unintended offence caused to society through the song’s depiction.

The Sarke Chunar controversy has remained in focus despite the Hindi version of the Kannada pan-India film track being removed from YouTube following public backlash.

Written Apology Submitted

During the proceedings, Sanjay Dutt acknowledged concerns raised by the Commission over the portrayal of women in the song and accepted the need for greater responsibility in creative content.

As per officials, the actor conveyed in writing that he regretted any unintended hurt caused by the song and recognised the importance of ensuring dignified and responsible representation of women in films and music content.

The Commission examined whether sufficient due diligence had been exercised before participating in content that could be viewed as promoting obscenity and objectification of women.

Education Support Pledge

As part of corrective measures, Sanjay Dutt informed the Commission that he would sponsor the education of 50 tribal girls.

Officials said the commitment was presented as a step towards social welfare and women’s empowerment, and was placed on record during the hearing. The move was seen as an effort to respond to concerns raised in the Sarke Chunar controversy with a tangible social commitment.

The Commission also reviewed the accountability of senior public figures and their role in influencing public discourse through mass media content.

Legal Vetting Promised

Sanjay Dutt also assured the Commission that future artist contracts linked to his projects would include mandatory legal scrutiny clauses.

According to officials, the proposed safeguards would seek to ensure that women and children are portrayed in a dignified and legally compliant manner in films and related creative works.

The assurance came amid growing scrutiny over content accountability in mainstream entertainment, a recurring issue in recent Government Updates and public interest debates around media standards.

Nora Seeks New Date

Actor Nora Fatehi, who was also summoned by the Commission in the matter, did not appear before the NCW on Monday. Officials said Nora Fatehi informed the Commission that she was out of the country and requested a fresh date for appearance. The Commission is expected to issue a revised hearing schedule.

Her absence means proceedings in the Sarke Chunar controversy will continue, with further scrutiny likely on the role of performers and producers associated with the song.

Earlier Appearances Recorded

The Commission had earlier conducted hearings in the matter on April 6, when other individuals and entities linked to the song appeared before the panel.

Those who appeared included director Kiran Kumar alias Prem, lyricist Raqeeb Alam and representatives of KVN Production, including Gautam K.M. and Supreeth. They had also submitted apologies before the Commission, as per reports.

The NCW had then reiterated that artistic freedom must operate within the bounds of responsibility, sensitivity and respect for women’s dignity.

What Happens Next

The NCW is expected to continue proceedings in the case after Nora Fatehi’s appearance and may review further compliance on assurances made during the hearing.

The Sarke Chunar controversy has again brought the spotlight on content regulation, accountability in popular entertainment and the responsibilities of influential public figures in shaping cultural standards.