Overview
Pakistan has reportedly declared Bollywood superstar Salman Khan a “terrorist” under the country’s Anti-Terrorism Act (1997) following a comment he made at a recent event in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The controversy arose from the actor’s mention of Balochistan separately from Pakistan, which officials interpreted as a challenge to the country’s national integrity.
Incident Details
The remark was made during a panel discussion at the Joy Forum 2025 in Riyadh, where Salman Khan spoke about the widespread popularity of Indian films among South Asian communities in the Gulf region.
In a now-viral clip, the actor said:
“There are people from Balochistan, there are people from Afghanistan, there are people from Pakistan — everyone is working here.”
This separate reference to Balochistan and Pakistan was perceived by Pakistani authorities as an indirect endorsement of separatism, sparking nationwide outrage and condemnation from political circles and media outlets.
Pakistan’s Response
According to reports from Moneycontrol and Asianet Newsable, Pakistan’s Interior Ministry has allegedly placed Salman Khan on the Fourth Schedule of the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA) 1997 — a list typically reserved for individuals suspected of anti-state or terrorist affiliations.
Individuals placed on this list are subject to surveillance, travel bans, and asset monitoring. Pakistani officials were quoted describing the statement as “inflammatory” and “a threat to national unity.”
Reactions
While officials in Islamabad condemned the comment, several Baloch activists and separatist figures publicly praised Salman Khan’s words, viewing them as recognition of Balochistan’s distinct identity.
One activist reportedly stated, “Salman Khan has given joy to millions of Baloch people by acknowledging us separately.”
Public and Media Reaction
The incident quickly went viral across social media platforms, triggering heated debate. Many Indian and Pakistani users argued over whether the actor’s phrasing was a political statement or an innocent geographical mention.
Several commentators pointed out that Salman Khan has never been known for political commentary, suggesting that his remark may have been taken out of context.
Current Status
As of now, no official notification from Pakistan’s Interior Ministry has been publicly verified. Multiple news outlets have reported the alleged move, but there has been no formal confirmation or official documentation released by Pakistani authorities.
Context
Balochistan, Pakistan’s largest province by area, has long been a center of separatist and insurgent movements. The Pakistani government maintains strict sensitivity toward any external commentary implying its separation or autonomy.
In summary:
Salman Khan’s seemingly casual remark about “people from Balochistan” has escalated into a diplomatic and political controversy, with Pakistan reportedly designating him as a “terrorist” under its anti-terror laws — a move that has yet to be officially verified.
Sources: Mashable India, Moneycontrol, Mid-Day, The Statesman, Asianet Newsable, , Hindustan Times
