Amitabh to get security cover over Diljit's 'KBC' episode controversy?
What's the story
The banned Khalistani group Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) has threatened Bollywood superstar Amitabh Bachchan and Punjabi singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh. The threats come after Dosanjh's recent appearance on the TV show Kaun Banega Crorepati 17, where he touched Bachchan's feet as a sign of respect, which angered SFJ. As per CNN-News18, a source revealed that the security for Bachchan is now under assessment. "Some threats to Bachchan are under assessment by central agencies...in connection with his recent meeting."
Threats issued
SFJ threatens to disrupt Dosanjh's concert in Australia
Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, the leader of the SFJ, has threatened to disrupt Dosanjh's concert in Australia on Saturday. The group accused Dosanjh of disrespecting the victims of the 1984 riots by touching Bachchan's feet. In a statement, SFJ said, "By touching the feet of Amitabh Bachchan, the man whose words fueled the 1984 genocide, Diljit Dosanjh has insulted every victim." The SFJ has been banned in India since July 2019 under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).
Security assessment
Australian authorities raise threat level for Dosanjh's concert
Meanwhile, Australian authorities have raised the threat level for Dosanjh's concert in Melbourne to level 2, reported ETimes. This decision was made after the SFJ called for shutdown rallies and released a video message from Pannun. The group has been using social media hashtags to incite violence and has been sharing content related to the 1984 riots. "Sources called this a calibrated influence operation rather than spontaneous outrage."
Allegations
SFJ accuses Bachchan of inciting violence during riots
The SFJ alleges that Bachchan incited violence during the 1984 anti-Sikh riots with his alleged slogan "Khoon ka badla khoon." They claim this contributed to the widespread violence in which thousands of Sikh men, women, and children were killed across India after former PM Indira Gandhi's assassination. The superstar has always defended himself, noting how his maternal grandparents were Sikhs.
Artist's statement
Dosanjh clarifies reason for 'KBC' appearance
In light of the controversy, Dosanjh took to Instagram to clarify his reasons for appearing on KBC. He wrote in Punjabi, "Na mai kisey film Di promotion lai geya c, na kisey ganey di promotion dai...Punjab floods lai geya C... ke national level te gal hove." The singer had appeared on the show to promote awareness for flood relief in Punjab.