India, May 14 -- Bollywood playback singer Sonu Nigam has petitioned the Karnataka High Court to dismiss criminal cases filed against him for allegedly making offensive comments about the Kannadiga community during a recent live event in Bengaluru. The court heard initial arguments and has scheduled the next hearing for May 15.

The controversy erupted following Nigam's appearance at a music concert held on April 22 in Bengaluru. A video clip of his remarks from the stage began circulating on social media, sparking outrage from several Kannada groups who accused him of insulting the local community.

In response to public outcry, a complaint was filed by Dharmaraj A., the Bengaluru Urban District President of the Karnataka Rakshana Vedike...