Savita Singh has claimed the 2026 Chutney Soca Monarch title, but her victory has sparked controversy online.
Many fans questioned her entry as a wild card, arguing other performers, including runner-up Rasika “D Rani” Dindial, were more deserving of the $400,000 prize.
Southex CEO George Singh defended the decision, saying wild cards are a standard “producer’s pick” and must still qualify through the semi-finals.
Despite the criticism, Singh remained silent, posting only a thank-you message to former champion Machel Montano, who placed fourth.
“Thank you, King Machel Montano, for your kind acknowledgment and congratulations on my win. You are a true example of what it means to be an artist, and we can all learn from your leadership. Thank you for continuing to inspire and support the next generation. I am truly honoured,” Singh wrote.
Montano praised Singh’s win on social media: “Big congratulations to Savita Singh, well deserved. The culture wins. The music wins. And we keep Dancing in the Streets.”
Singh reportedly left Trinidad and Tobago on Tuesday morning for an event in New Zealand.
She is due to perform at a Valentine’s Day event on Saturday at the Netball Auditorium, Manurewa.
Singh is the first woman to capture this prestigious title and Chutney Soca Queen simultaneously.
Social media reactions on 103.1FM’s social media pages have been overwhelmingly critical.
Many commenters expressed disbelief that Singh won, arguing that Dindial and Lada Lava were the true crowd favourites.
Here are some of the online comments on 103.1FM’s Facebook page:
Sumintra Ragoobar: “Them late icons must be turning in they grave, look what CSM come to.”
Tracey Maharaj: “Really thought Rasika was getting 1st and Lady Lava 2nd.”
Charisse-Cher Ragoonanan: “Because she’s so loved by everyone; she should give Rasika the crown, she’s an icon and well deserved.”
Sasha Rajkumar Bhimsingh: “I literally had to Google her song because I didn’t know it… Rasika was a big hit.”
Vanessa Harry: “What unpopular song she sang that the whole of Trinidad is unaware of?
