Salman Khan on Pakistan's terror watchlist following 'Balochistan' remarks

NEW DELHI: Bollywood star Salman Khan's Balochistan remark sparked a huge controversy in Pakistan. The actor made the controversial remark while speaking about the potential of films in Saudi Arabia at the recent Joy Forum 2025. Following this, reports have emerged that Pakistan has included the actor in the terror watchlist, conforming to the fourth schedule of its anti-terrorism law. Salman was speaking about the growth of Indian cinema at an event in Riyadh along with Shah Rukh Khan and Aamir Khan.

The actor has been included in the list of individuals with terrorist links under Pakistan's anti-terror law. There are also unconfirmed reports that he was described as an 'Azad Balochistan facilitator' in a notice issued by the Balochistan Home Department. With his inclusion in the list, the actor will face strict surveillance and legal action, including travel restrictions.

“If a Hindi film is released in Saudi Arabia, it will be a super hit. If a Tamil, Telugu or Malayalam film is made, it will earn crores in Saudi Arabia. It is because Saudi Arabia is home to people from all over the globe. There are people from Balochistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan residing in Saudi Arabia. Everyone works here," Salman Khan said.

The star's remarks, specifically mentioning Balochistan, angered officials and army chiefs in Islamabad. Pakistan considers Baloch as an integral part of its territory and not an independent country.

Reports say that Pakistani authorities viewed this remark as a challenge to the country's territorial integrity.

Meanwhile, Salman Khan's remarks were praised by Baloch separatist leaders. Salman's words are seen as an endorsement of their freedom struggle. Mir Yar Baloch, a prominent spokesperson for Baloch freedom fighters, said that Salman’s words have brought joy to six crore Baloch people. Salman Khan has not yet issued an official statement in response to the controversies. After the film 'Sikandar', the actor is currently working on the film 'Battle of Galwan'.