Mumbai, one of India’s busiest cities, was recently shaken by a chilling threat directed at Salim Khan, a veteran screenwriter and the father of Bollywood megastar Salman Khan. The 87-year-old Salim Khan, known for his iconic work in Indian cinema, reportedly received the threat during his regular morning walk in the Bandra area of Mumbai. This threat has been linked to the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, a notorious criminal syndicate, which has been known for targeting celebrities and high-profile figures.
Incident Overview
The incident took place on a seemingly normal morning in Bandra, where Salim Khan follows a routine of walking along the Bandstand Promenade, a popular spot for locals and celebrities alike. It was reported that after finishing his walk, Salim Khan sat on one of the benches he regularly frequents. It was at this point that his security personnel noticed an envelope placed on the bench. On opening the letter, it was revealed to be a threat directed at Salim Khan and his son Salman Khan.
The note reportedly read, “Moosewala jaisa kar dunga,” alluding to the murder of the Punjabi singer Sidhu Moosewala, who was tragically killed in May 2022. The Lawrence Bishnoi gang is believed to be responsible for the killing of Moosewala, and this reference has further escalated the seriousness of the threat.
Salim Khan’s security team immediately contacted the Mumbai Police, who arrived at the scene and began an investigation. The police confirmed the involvement of the Bishnoi gang in the threat and have since ramped up security for the Khan family.
The Lawrence Bishnoi Connection
Lawrence Bishnoi, a gangster currently in jail, has developed a reputation for being involved in organized crime across North India. His name first emerged in connection with threats to Salman Khan in 2018, when he allegedly vowed to kill the actor over his involvement in the blackbuck poaching case. Bishnoi, a member of the Bishnoi community, considers the blackbuck sacred and had made it clear that he held a grudge against the actor.
Despite being incarcerated, Bishnoi’s gang has remained active and continues to wield influence in various criminal activities. The gang’s involvement in Sidhu Moosewala’s murder has further cemented their notoriety. The recent threat to Salim Khan has sparked concerns about the gang’s reach and their ability to target high-profile individuals even while operating from behind bars.
Increased Security Measures
Following the discovery of the threat, the Mumbai Police launched a thorough investigation into the matter. A case has been registered under sections of the Indian Penal Code related to criminal intimidation and threats. The authorities are also scrutinizing CCTV footage from the area to identify any suspicious activity or individuals who might have planted the threatening letter.
Meanwhile, security around the Khan residence in Bandra has been tightened. Salman Khan, who has long been a target for various threats, already had a robust security detail, but the recent incident has prompted an upgrade in the measures taken to protect the family. The actor, known for his massive fan following, has been advised to avoid public appearances for the time being.
The threat has also reignited conversations about the safety of celebrities in India. While public figures often have to deal with an overwhelming amount of attention from fans, they also face serious threats from criminal elements. The latest incident involving Salim Khan has underscored the vulnerabilities that even well-protected individuals like the Khans can face.
The Khan Family’s Response
Neither Salim Khan nor Salman Khan has made any public statements regarding the incident. However, sources close to the family have indicated that they are deeply concerned but are fully cooperating with the authorities. Salman Khan, who has faced several legal battles and controversies over the years, is reportedly taking the threat very seriously.
The Khans are no strangers to security challenges. Salman Khan, one of Bollywood’s biggest stars, has faced numerous threats, including previous ones from the Bishnoi gang. This latest incident, however, has drawn significant attention due to the direct involvement of Salim Khan, a respected figure in Bollywood and one of the pioneers of Hindi cinema.
As investigations continue, the threat to Salim Khan has once again highlighted the dangerous nexus between celebrity and crime in India. The involvement of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang has sent ripples through the entertainment industry, raising questions about the adequacy of security for public figures. For now, the Mumbai Police are leaving no stone unturned in ensuring the safety of the Khan family, as the nation watches closely to see how this troubling situation unfolds.