Recently, Supreme Court Lawyer Runa Bhuyan came across a Facebook clip from the sets of the popular singing reality show, The Voice Kids India’s Holi special episode. What caught the lawyer’s attention was singer and judge – Papon’s behaviour with a contestant on the show. Allegedly, the singer was seen applying gulal on the girl’s face and then kissed her forcefully.
In the complaint filed by Mr. Bhuyan, he said, “I am shocked to see the behaviour of the said singer Angarag Papon Mahanta towards a minor girl where he is seen to be applying colours on a minor girl and inappropriately kissing the said girl. On seeing the video, I am seriously concerned regarding the safety and security of minor girl participating in reality shows across India”. The complaint has been filed under Protection of Children from Sexual Offenses (POSCO).
https://www.facebook.com/AngaraagPAPONMahanta/videos/10156115106999004/
He further elaborated, “The said video is taken in a van where the kids participating, in the reality show The Voice of India Kids 2018 are seemed to involve in some fun activities with the crew member of the show along with singer Angarag Papon Mahanta who is also a jury member of the show. Surprisingly, though there are a number of minor girls present inside the van, not a single female member of the crew is seen to be present inside the van. ”
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When PeepingMoon.Com contacted the singer’s manager, he said, “No comments. Papon himself will issue a statement soon.”
The channel has given a statement saying, "
We as a channel have always been focused on the safety, security and well-being of the contestants participating in our shows. We have always adhered to the NCPCR guidelines and our production house, Essel Vision Productions Limited has taken all precautionary measures required under NCPCR and other laws. We believe in nurturing talent with utmost sensitivity and care while we provide them with the platform to showcase their aptitude.As a responsible channel, we are extending complete support to all parties who are impacted by this incident and will stand by them to help them through this situation."
The concerned contestant's father said, "Papon sir is a mentor and a father figure to my daughter and has always encouraged her to pursue her dreams. He doesn’t differentiate amongst the children who are here and gives them equal guidance on pursuing their dreams. What you saw in the video is not intentional. It was just a moment of affection that is being portrayed otherwise. I would request and urge the media to not pursue this further."
Papon is well known for his hit Bollywood songs like, “Moh Moh Ke Dhaage”, “Kaun Mera”, “Jiyein Kyu” amongst more.
