Mika Singh's Ishqam song, with 273 million views, is embroiled in a royalty dispute; police issue notice

News Topical, Digital Desk : Patiala Police has given its verdict in an alleged fraud case related to Mika Singh's popular song 'Ishqam'. Patiala Police has asked the officials of UK-based Centric Music and Mumbai-based Believe Digital to appear before it on January 5, 2026 in the alleged case of music royalty fraud. The two main accused in this case are Bangladeshi nationals Sheikh Sami Mohammad and Sheikh Shafi Mohammad.

What is the whole matter?

The song was released by Navrattan Music under its label. Mika Singh and Ali Quli Mirza are also featured in the song. An investigation is underway into an international fraud case involving alleged royalty misappropriation related to "Ishqam." Patiala police have issued new notices to the CEO and others of Believe Digital Music Company, as well as officials of the UK-based firm.

Complaint filed under these sections

The case was registered on the complaint of Himansh Verma, proprietor of Navratna Music. Based on this, FIR No. 130, dated June 24, 2025, was registered at Police Station Civil Lines, Patiala, under sections 318(4), 319(2), 336(3), 340(2), 61(2) of the Indian Penal Code, 2023, and sections 63, 63-A, and 65 of the Copyright Act, 1957.

The FIR alleges an international conspiracy involving the embezzlement of music publishing royalties worth several crores of rupees, forgery of electronic records, and fraud related to the song "Ishqam." Several accused have been named in the case, including Chris Meehan, Lauren McShane, Vivek Raina, Sunil Gursahani, and Malkit Aulakh.

Notice issued for questioning

Patiala Police has issued personal notices to all the newly named accused under Section 35(3) of the Indian Penal Code, 2023, directing them to appear before the investigating officer on the scheduled dates in connection with the investigation.

Separate investigation into withholding of royalty continues

The investigating agency is also investigating why Believe Music, the distributor of "Ishqam," continued to withhold royalties. It is alleged that despite a valid written distribution agreement mandating regular accounting and timely payments, and despite the alleged fraud and the provision of all documents related to ownership, royalties for the song were not released. Patiala Police have clarified that the investigation is ongoing and appropriate action will be taken according to the law based on the findings.

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