Indian Police Stop Ed Sheeran’s Street Performance, Saying He Didn’t Have Permission

British pop star Ed Sheeran was stopped from busking on Church Street in Bengaluru on Sunday, with police stating that he did not have the required permission. A video circulating online captures the moment when a local police officer unplugged Sheeran’s microphone, bringing his street performance to an abrupt end.

According to officials who spoke to ANI news agency, Sheeran’s request to perform on the street had been denied in advance to avoid congestion in the area. However, Sheeran later addressed the situation on Instagram, clarifying, “We had permission to busk, by the way. Hence, us playing in that exact spot was planned out before. It wasn’t just us randomly turning up. All good though. See you at the show tonight.”

The incident took place just hours before Sheeran’s Mathematics Tour concert at NICE Grounds in Bengaluru. While many fans expressed disappointment over the police intervention, some local figures defended the decision. PC Mohan, a BJP MP from Bengaluru, supported the authorities’ move, emphasizing that even global celebrities must adhere to local regulations, stating, “Even global stars must follow local rules – no permit, no performance!”

Sheeran is currently on a 15-day tour across India, having already performed in Pune, Hyderabad, and Chennai. His upcoming concerts are scheduled to take place in Shillong and Delhi.