The ongoing conflict between renowned Haryanvi singer Masoom Sharma and former Sarpanch Rajendra Sharma of Muana village has reached a critical juncture in Jind. On Saturday evening, Masoom Sharma's elder brother, Vikas, met with the former Sarpanch to offer an apology and seek a resolution. Vikas stated that since Masoom is currently out of town, he came forward to prevent further escalation of the matter, while however, Rajendra Sharma has maintained a firm stance, refusing to settle the matter privately and insisting on a formal public apology from the singer himself.
Brother Vikas Offers Explanation and Apology
In an attempt to de-escalate the situation, Vikas Sharma explained the circumstances of the February 18 event. He noted that the stage provided for the performance was relatively small, and as Masoom began his set, a large crowd gathered on and around the platform. According to Vikas, the singer didn't notice the former Sarpanch standing on the stage due to the congestion. He claimed that Masoom's request for people to clear the stage was a general appeal to manage the crowd and wasn't intended to insult any specific individual. Vikas extended an apology to all Sarpanch representatives and the community on behalf of his brother, urging that the dispute shouldn't be stretched further.
Former Sarpanch Rejects Private Settlement
Former Sarpanch Rajendra Sharma has categorically rejected the private apology offered by Vikas. He stated that the remarks made by Masoom Sharma on stage weren't just a personal insult but an affront to all elected representatives and Sarpanches across the state. Sharma emphasized that he can't unilaterally agree to a settlement because many other representatives and community leaders have stood by him during this controversy. He has set a condition that Masoom Sharma must appear in person before the Panchayat and issue a live, public apology to restore the dignity of the office he holds.
Critique of Singer's Conduct and 'Bateu' Remark
Rajendra Sharma criticized Masoom Sharma's behavior during the event, using the term 'Bateu' (a pampered son-in-law or guest) to describe the singer's perceived arrogance on stage, while he remarked that the singer needs to shed this attitude and approach the community with humility. Sharma confirmed that he had a telephonic conversation with Masoom, who cited his absence from the city as the reason for not appearing sooner. The former Sarpanch stated that once Masoom returns around February 25 or 26, a collective meeting will be held to resolve the issue. He insisted that since the insult was public, the apology must also be public and live.
Naveen Jaihind's Stance on Public Representatives
Political activist Naveen Jaihind has also weighed in on the controversy through a video message. Jaihind, who was present at the same event, mentioned that while he also faced some minor friction that night, he chose to maintain composure. He criticized Masoom Sharma's conduct, stating that artists who receive immense love from the public must exercise restraint and respect for public representatives. Jaihind pointed out that the community had previously supported Masoom during his professional struggles, and using derogatory language against a Sarpanch is unacceptable, as these representatives hold significant social influence.
Background of the February 18 Incident
The controversy originated on February 18 during a 25th wedding anniversary celebration for Masoom Sharma's brother-in-law, Dharamveer Arya, in Jind. When Masoom Sharma took the stage, he reportedly became agitated by the crowd's presence on the platform. A video that went viral on social media showed the singer telling former Sarpanch Rajendra Sharma that he doesn't recognize any titles like Sarpanch, MLA, or Minister during his performance. He allegedly told the former Sarpanch to watch the show from the ground like everyone else. This led to immediate backlash, with the former Sarpanch challenging Masoom to contest a local election and threatening to call a Mahapanchayat if an apology wasn't tendered.