Mehwish Hayat and Yo Yo Honey Singh under fire over Jatt Mehkma video
Pakistani actress Mehwish Hayat and Indian singer Yo Yo Honey Singh are under fire over a controversial music video.
Citing Deadline, Dawn reported that British Parliament member Manuela Perteghella called on Monday for action against Pakistani actress Mehwish Hayat and Indian singer Yo Yo Honey Singh over a music video featuring children wielding firearms.
Filmed in the UK, the video for the song Jatt Mehkma has gained nearly 40 million views on YouTube since its November release.
It includes a scene where four young boys join Hayat’s character to open fire on a group of men using replica automatic weapons and shotguns.
According to Dawn.com, the British MP representing Stratford-upon-Avon formally raised the issue with the UK Home Office after the video sparked concern over what critics called a “disturbing glorification of violence.”
The video was reportedly filmed at Eastnor Castle in Herefordshire and in Birmingham’s city centre, with logistical support from a UK-based production company.
The report cited sources saying that the Home Office was considering exclusion orders against both Hayat and Singh, which would bar them from entering the country.
“There are serious concerns about the use of imitation firearms and exposing minors to violent themes.”
Ms. Hayat, who appeared in Marvel’s Ms. Marvel series and is known for Pakistani films like Load Wedding and Actor in Law, has denied that any action is being taken against her.
“These claims are entirely speculative and misleading,” she said in a statement, urging media platforms to verify facts before spreading such narratives.
Mr. Singh, one of India’s most recognisable hip-hop stars and the subject of the Netflix documentary Yo Yo Honey Singh: Famous, has remained silent.
The UK Home Office and West Midlands Police have declined to comment, and no legal proceedings have been announced yet.
Following the controversy, the BBC Asian Network is reportedly no longer considering Jatt Mehkma for future playlists.