Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann Defends Diljit Dosanjh, Slams Ban on ‘Sardaar Ji 3’ over Hania Aamir’s Inclusion

CHANDIGARH:Chief Minister of Indian Punjab **Bhagwant Mann** has come forward in support of Punjabi actor **Diljit Dosanjh** amid the controversy surrounding his latest film **‘Sardaar Ji 3’**, which has been **banned in India** due to the inclusion of **Pakistani actress Hania Aamir** in the cast.

Speaking passionately in the **Punjab Assembly**, CM Mann criticized the **Indian government’s discriminatory attitude toward Sikhs** and questioned the **patriotism test** being imposed on Punjab. He stated that the film’s **shooting was completed long before the Pahalgam incident**, and yet the film has been unfairly labeled as “anti-national.”

“Punjabis on both sides of the border share the same **language, culture, and traditions**. Just because Diljit made a film with a Pakistani actress, he is being branded a traitor? This is unacceptable,” Mann said.

He questioned the **double standards** applied to Punjab, stating, “Punjab has fought India’s wars and fed the nation, yet we are repeatedly called traitors. What is Punjab’s fault?”

Mann also addressed the broader political messaging, mocking the fluctuating narrative:
“One day they say, ‘Fight Pakistan,’ the next day, ‘Make peace with Pakistan.’ Are Punjabis supposed to blindly follow every shift?” He emphasized that **70% of the country’s food** comes from Punjab and Haryana, adding, “Without us, you can’t even eat.”

The **ban on ‘Sardaar Ji 3’** has sparked widespread criticism, especially as the film has been **released internationally**, receiving global viewership and appreciation. Indian authorities have also restricted access to **social media accounts** of several Pakistani artists in the wake of recent tensions.

Bhagwant Mann’s defense of Diljit Dosanjh and his bold criticism of censorship and regional discrimination have added fuel to the ongoing debate on **freedom of artistic expression** and **cross-border cultural collaboration**.