Diljit Dosanjh is facing significant backlash for his upcoming Punjabi film Sardaar Ji 3 because it features Pakistani actress Hania Aamir.
After the Pahalgam attacks, India had banned all Pakistani actors, artists, and performers from Bollywood as a sign of boycott.
Also Read – Bollywood’s Real Heroes Selling Out for BO Hits?
Although the film was reportedly shot well before the incident, Diljit’s decision to go ahead with its release has sparked public outrage.
The trailer has since been removed from YouTube in India. Both the All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) and the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) have spoken out against him, calling for a boycott of the film.
Also Read – King vs Criminal Mastermind: Oct 2 Clash Winner?
FWICE went a step further and wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, demanding that Diljit Dosanjh’s citizenship be revoked.
In response, BJP national spokesperson R.P. Singh voiced his opinion on the matter.
Also Read – WAR 2 Promotions, Fans Shocked: What’s YRF Planning
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), he stated that Diljit is not just an artist, but also an asset to the country and an ambassador of Indian culture worldwide.
He argued that FWICE’s call to revoke Diljit’s Indian citizenship over a film shot before the attack was not only unfair but also shockingly disproportionate.
Singh acknowledged that if there is anguish, people can boycott the film or stop its screening in India, but revoking citizenship is an extreme measure.
In his tweet, he pointed out the inconsistency of how India played a cricket match against Pakistan right before the attacks, and Indian TV channels frequently invite Pakistani guests to boost TRPs. Should their citizenships be revoked too, he asked.
He urged FWICE to reconsider its stance, emphasizing that targeting our own talent only weakens our moral standing.
There is no point in cheapening nationalism or weaponizing patriotism against our own people, he concluded.
This BJP leader’s stance has been appreciated by many for its balanced and thoughtful tone.
However, some critics speculate that the statement may be politically motivated, possibly aimed at gaining favour with Sikh voters.
Regardless, many agree with the sentiment and believe FWICE should reconsider its position.
