Punjabi singer Jasbir Jassi has strongly criticised the BJP’s decision to project rapper Yo Yo Honey Singh as a face of its anti-drug campaign in Punjab, saying the move sends a “wrong message” at a time when drug abuse remains a major issue in the state.

The controversy began after BJP National General Secretary Tarun Chugh shared pictures of his meeting with Honey Singh on X and said both discussed a shared resolve to make Punjab drug-free. BJP leaders positioned the rapper as a campaign ambassador aimed at reaching Punjab’s youth ahead of the 2027 Assembly elections.

Reacting sharply, Jassi questioned the decision and accused the BJP of ignoring Honey Singh’s controversial past.

“Are you saving Punjab or mocking its people?” Jassi wrote in a social media post, comparing the move to “asking a cat to guard a bowl of milk”.

Jassi said he usually stays away from political debates but chose to speak because the issue directly concerns Punjab and its younger generation.

Jassi argued that Honey Singh’s past controversies cannot be separated from Punjab’s ongoing fight against drugs. He said the rapper’s music and public image had long been accused of glamorising substance abuse and vulgarity among young listeners.

“I felt sad because those who normalised drug culture among Punjabi youth are now being made ambassadors of an anti-drug campaign,” Jassi said.

Jassi’s criticism stems largely from Honey Singh’s controversial public image over the years. The rapper had publicly spoken about his struggles with addiction and mental health during the peak of his career.

Punjab Police had previously booked Honey Singh over vulgar songs following court directions linked to a complaint. A BJP leader from Jalandhar had also reportedly objected to one of his older songs and sought action over obscene content in a music video.

The singer further said Punjab’s culture and identity cannot be represented by “one popular face”, especially someone whose music had repeatedly faced criticism over its influence on youth.

“People living in Delhi or Mumbai do not understand Punjab’s culture. One celebrity cannot represent Punjab,” he said.

Jassi also warned political leaders against misunderstanding public sentiment in Punjab, saying several personalities being promoted are “not liked by the people”.

Why is BJP defending the decision?

Tarun Chugh defended the BJP’s outreach campaign and praised Honey Singh’s recovery journey, saying his personal experience could inspire young people battling addiction.

According to Chugh, Honey Singh overcoming substance abuse could encourage others struggling with similar issues to seek help and rebuild their lives.

The BJP leader described the interaction as a meaningful discussion focused on protecting Punjab’s youth from drugs and strengthening awareness against addiction.