Salman Khan: Pakistani artists are not terrorists

Mega star Salman Khan was at his ‘Dabangg’ best when today he said a distinction must be made between terrorists and Pakistani artists who have been allowed by the government to work in India.

In the midst of a raging debate and public anger after Pakistani terrorists attacked an army base in Kashmir’s Uri killing 18 soldiers, the film producers’ association IMPPA on Thursday decided to ban Pakistani artists from working in India “until the situation of hostilities between Pakistan and India subsides and the government of India declares that all is well with Pakistan.”

“The ideal situation would be peace and harmony,” Salman Khan said today, describing as “proper action,” the surgical strikes carried out by the Indian Army against Pakistani terrorists across the Line of Control on Wednesday night.

The superstar however said “Those were terrorists, these are artists. Two different issues.” When asked to elaborate, Salman said, “Are these artists terrorists? They come here on a visa, who gives them that visa? Our government gives them visas.”

Other prominent Bollywood personalities like Karan Johar have earlier spoken against banning Pakistani artists. He told NDTV earlier this week that he understands and shares the anger of people after the Uri attack, but banning talent from Pakistan was not the solution to end terrorism and restore peaceful relations.