The BBC has reported that one of Pakistan's leading pop artists has appeared in court over an allegedly insulting song. Ibrarul Haq, a well-known singer of Punjabi bhangra tunes, was summoned to the Supreme Court in Islamabad over his song that apparently contained words "Parveen you are so salty".
The move came after a girl called Parveen had claimed that the lyrics embarrassed her and her family. But Mr. Haq said the song did not use the name Parveen but Parmeen - which is not a recognised name in Pakistan.
"It's a misunderstanding - the general public has misunderstood... it's not my fault," Mr Haq said. Mr Haq's lawyer said that the copyright had been issued for a song with the word Parmeen. Parveen is a common name in Pakistan, and a number of girls are reported to have been teased about the song's words.
The court case began after a university student from Lahore called Parveen wrote to Pakistan's acting Chief Justice Rana Bhagwandas, claiming that Mr Haq's lyrics embarrassed her. Lahore is the country's most culturally rich and vibrant city, but while known for its liberals, artists, intellectuals and fun-loving people, it is also home to some of the most conservative sections of Pakistani society.
The song has proved to be a hit in Pakistan, with roadside stalls and cafes playing it repeatedly.
"This matter is very sensitive and such things cannot be allowed in Pakistani society," Mr Bhagwandas was quoted as saying by the AFP news agency. "Nobody can be allowed to hurt the sentiments of others," he said.
After weeks of deliveration, the Court finally ordered the singer to omit the name of the girl and some other objectionable words in his lyrics. Haq said he would abide by the court decision.
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