&TV confirms Papon's departure from reality show

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], Feb. 24 (ANI): The &TV on Saturday in a statement categorically said that Bollywood singer Angarag Papon Mahanta will not be shooting any further episodes till the issue is resolved.

Papon, earlier in the day decided to step down as a judge of the reality show 'Voice of India Kids 2018', after being criticized for allegedly kissing a minor girl.

In a statement, &TV said "In light of the ongoing enquiry, and in the best interest of the participants' well-being, Angarag Mahanta (Papon) will be stepping back as the coach on the show 'The Voice India Kids' on &TV. He will not be shooting any further episodes till the issue is resolved".

The statement further added: "As broadcasters, it's our responsibility to act in an unbiased and just manner. We're committed to doing so. In the interim, we would humbly request everyone to please show understanding and concern towards all parties involved and allow for the due process to be completed."

Meanwhile, the Assam Police has registered a case against Papon in connection with the same case.

Yesterday, The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) had also issued a notice to both singer Papon and the TV channel.

Supreme Court lawyer Runa Bhuyan on Friday filed a complaint against Papon, under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act for allegedly "inappropriately kissing a minor girl".

The incident took place during the shoot of a Holi celebration on the sets of a Hindi singing reality show where the girl is among the contestants. (ANI)