Bhagwant Mann alleges BJP targeting Diljit Dosanjh after actor refused political entry

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann accused the BJP of using “intimidation tactics” against singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh after he reportedly declined to enter politics.

Speaking to reporters, Mann claimed the BJP approached Diljit Dosanjh after observing the growing popularity of actor-politicians in regional politics, particularly in Tamil Nadu.

“After actor Vijay’s success in Tamil Nadu’s political landscape, BJP realised that artists enjoy greater public acceptance and therefore attempted to bring Diljit Dosanjh into politics,” Mann said.

He further alleged that after Diljit refused the offer, attempts were made to pressure and intimidate him. Mann referred to the recent firing incident at the residence of Diljit’s manager and described it as part of a “politics of threat.”

Earlier on May 9, Diljit Dosanjh publicly dismissed speculation about joining politics through a post on X. Responding to rumours suggesting he could become a political face in Punjab, the singer wrote, “Kadey v Nhi... Mera Kam Entertainment Karna. Am Very Happy in My Field.”

Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema also alleged that gangster Lawrence Bishnoi was being used to intimidate celebrities.

Cheema questioned how Bishnoi could allegedly continue orchestrating criminal activities while lodged in Sabarmati Central Jail in Gujarat. He claimed such operations could not happen without political patronage.

Several Punjab ministers, including Balbir Singh and Baljit Kaur, also condemned the firing incident and accused the BJP of targeting Punjabi artists who refused political alignment.

The BJP has not officially responded to the allegations made by Punjab ministers.