Controversy Erupts Over Sardar Ji 3: Calls for Nationwide Ban

Sardar Ji 3 Faces Backlash from BJP Chitrapat Kamgar Aghaadi

The much-anticipated Punjabi film Sardar Ji 3, featuring Diljit Dosanjh, is facing significant backlash from the BJP Chitrapat Kamgar Aghaadi, which is advocating for a nationwide ban on the movie due to the involvement of Pakistani actors in its cast.

Reports indicate that the film includes performances by Hania Aamir, Nasir Chinyoti, Daniel Khawar, and Saleem Albela, all hailing from Pakistan. The Union, representing workers and technicians in the Indian film sector, has formally requested that the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) deny approval for the film and halt its theatrical release across India.

In their statement, the Union expressed, 'We firmly oppose any Pakistani artist's participation in Indian cinema. The BJP Chitrapat Kamgar Union demands that Sardar Ji 3 be denied a censor certificate. This issue transcends politics; it concerns national sentiment and the honor of our nation.'

The Union also condemned what they perceive as a 'double standard' within the industry, stating, 'Pakistan has openly declared India as its adversary, yet we continue to welcome their artists and entertainers. This is intolerable. As representatives of the Indian film industry's workforce, we cannot remain passive in the face of this situation.'

The statement concluded with a plea to both the CBFC and the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to align their actions with national sentiment and prevent the release of Sardar Ji 3 in Indian cinemas.

Tensions between India and Pakistan have escalated following the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, 2025, which resulted in the deaths of 26 civilians. Earlier this year, the film Abir Gulaal, featuring Pakistani actor Fawad Khan alongside Indian actress Vaani Kapoor, was also banned due to similar objections from Indian film federations.

Additionally, the government has banned the Instagram accounts of several prominent Pakistani personalities, making them inaccessible to Indian users. This list includes Hania Aamir, Mahira Khan, Atif Aslam, Fawad Khan, Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, and cricketer Babar Azam.