Bhojpuri Singer Neha Singh Rathore Faces FIR for Criticizing Modi Government Over Pahalgam Attack: A Look at the Controversy

Bhojpuri singer Neha Singh Rathore has found herself embroiled in yet another controversy, as an FIR was filed against her in Lucknow’s Hazratganj. The singer’s recent social media post, in which she criticized the Modi government over the Pahalgam terrorist attack, has sparked heated debates on freedom of expression, national integrity, and political discourse.

The Pahalgam Attack and Neha’s Criticism

On April 25, 2025, Neha Singh Rathore posted a video on social media condemning the government’s handling of the Pahalgam terrorist attack. The attack, which claimed the lives of 26 innocent civilians, was a devastating blow to the security and intelligence apparatus of the nation. Neha, in her video, accused the government of failing to prevent such an attack despite having the capability to manage national security effectively.

Neha’s strong words were directed at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, as she questioned how the leader who allegedly had the power to end international conflicts, like the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, failed to protect his own citizens from terrorism. “The person who could bring a halt to the (Russia-Ukraine) war could not avert a terrorist attack in his own country,” she said in her video.

Her words did not stop there. Neha went further to claim that the PM would use the tragedy of the Pahalgam attack to gain political mileage, just as he did after the 2019 Pulwama terror attack. The singer accused the ruling government of politicizing the tragedy for electoral gains, stating that Modi would likely seek votes in Bihar using the victims of the attack as pawns in his political strategy.

FIR and the Allegations

The FIR, which was filed against Neha, accuses her of making “objectionable” statements that could harm national integrity. The complaint alleges that Neha’s social media post could incite people to commit crimes based on religion and caste. The FIR claims that her video, shared widely on X (formerly Twitter), is being praised in Pakistan, with the country using her statements against India.

The accusations against Neha are grave, with the police claiming that her statements undermine national unity and the respect due to India’s institutions. Furthermore, Neha has been accused of belittling the sacrifices of Indian soldiers and of using a tragic event for political gain.

Neha Singh Rathore’s Political Views and Previous Controversies

This is not the first time Neha Singh Rathore has courted controversy over her views on the government. In the past, she faced backlash for her song “UP Me Ka Ba- Season 2”, which criticized the Uttar Pradesh government’s actions in response to the deaths of a mother and daughter during an eviction drive. The singer has also been vocal in her social media posts, often sharing her opinions on matters of national importance, particularly on issues of governance, security, and human rights.

In her latest video, Neha raised important questions about the state of the nation. She criticized the government’s handling of crucial issues like education, healthcare, and national security. “What should I question the government about? Issues of education and health are no longer relevant. People are being killed despite the politics of nationalism, and Hindu-Muslim tensions are at their peak,” she stated. These remarks have resonated with many who feel that the government’s priorities are misplaced.

The Broader Debate: Freedom of Expression or Anti-National Sentiment?

The case against Neha Singh Rathore has sparked a larger debate about freedom of expression in India. While some view her criticism as a legitimate exercise of her right to question the government, others accuse her of spreading misinformation and undermining national security. The government’s critics argue that her remarks highlight a larger issue of accountability, while her supporters claim that she is being unfairly targeted for speaking out.

The police action against Neha comes at a time when the nation is grappling with growing political polarization and an increasing number of cases involving the prosecution of individuals for their social media posts. Many fear that such actions could stifle the freedom of speech, a cornerstone of democracy, and lead to self-censorship among those critical of the ruling government.

Conclusion: The Impact of Neha Singh Rathore’s Controversy

The FIR against Neha Singh Rathore serves as a reminder of the fine line between political criticism and legal accountability. While she has the right to voice her concerns, the manner in which her comments are perceived—both within India and internationally—raises questions about the implications of free speech in a country that is constantly evolving politically and socially.

As the case progresses, it will be crucial to keep an eye on how it affects not only the future of social media discourse in India but also the broader debate on the rights of citizens to challenge the government and hold it accountable for its actions. The Pahalgam attack, a tragedy that claimed innocent lives, remains a focal point in the larger narrative of national security, political accountability, and the role of citizens in shaping the discourse of a democracy.

Ultimately, this case could become a defining moment in the ongoing struggle for the protection of free speech in India, with Neha Singh Rathore standing at the center of a storm that questions the very nature of dissent in a democratic society.