Bollywood megastar Salman Khan has landed in serious trouble with Pakistan&rsquo;s government after an offhand remark about Balochistan at a global film event triggered political outrage. The Pakistani authorities have reportedly placed the actor on the &ldquo;Fourth Schedule&rdquo; of the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA) of 1997,&nbsp; a list reserved for individuals suspected of links to terrorism or anti-state activities.
The controversy erupted after Salman, speaking at the Joy Forum 2025 in Riyadh, mentioned &ldquo;people from Balochistan, Afghanistan, even from Pakistan&rdquo; while discussing the diversity of film workers in the Middle East. The phrasing, seen by Islamabad as implying that Balochistan and Pakistan are separate entities, was deemed an &ldquo;attack on sovereignty&rdquo; by the government. Soon after, social media lit up with fierce debate, was it merely a slip of the tongue or a politically loaded statement?
Pakistan&rsquo;s decision to act swiftly and label the actor under its anti-terror law has stunned observers. Being listed under the Fourth Schedule means Salman Khan could face restricted travel, constant surveillance, and potential legal action if he enters Pakistani jurisdiction. While officials in Islamabad have not released an official statement yet, reports suggest the move aims to &ldquo;send a message&rdquo; about the sensitivity of Balochistan-related comments.
Interestingly, Baloch independence leaders celebrated Salman&rsquo;s remark, calling it a symbolic victory. One leader even thanked the actor, saying his words &ldquo;brought joy to six crore Baloch citizens and reminded the world of their struggle for recognition.&rdquo; Meanwhile, Salman Khan&rsquo;s team has not issued any clarification, leaving the controversy to intensify across diplomatic and online circles.

Pakistan Books Salman Khan Under Terror Law

Actor faces backlash after Balochistan remark sparks diplomatic storm

Pakistan Books Salman Khan Under Terror Law

Actor faces backlash after Balochistan remark sparks diplomatic storm

October 26, 2025 | 16:55 IST