The security around Bollywood star Salman Khan’s residence has been heightened following new death threats and an extortion demand of ₹5 crore. The threats, issued by the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, are rooted in a long-standing feud stemming from the 1998 blackbuck killing case, where Salman Khan was accused of hunting a protected species in Jodhpur, Rajasthan. The Bishnoi community, who hold the blackbuck sacred, view Khan’s actions as a grave offense against their cultural beliefs.
Salim Khan, Salman’s father, has vehemently denied the accusations, claiming his son was not present during the blackbuck killing. In an interview, Salim Khan stated, “Who should Salman apologize to? Apologies are meant for those with whom you have committed a crime. Did Salman commit any crime? Have you seen it? Do you know? Have you investigated? We have never even used a gun. Salman said he wasn’t even there at that time.” He further emphasized, “Usko koi shauq nahi janwar maarne ka.. (he has no interest in killing animals)..he loves animals.”
Salim Khan also refuted any connection between Salman and the recent murder of NCP leader Baba Siddique, stating, “There is no connection between Salman and the murder of Baba Siddique. Baba Siddique’s murder occurred due to a property dispute.” This statement directly contradicts claims made by members of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang who alleged a link between the two incidents.
The threats against Salman have escalated in recent months, with the gang demanding ₹5 crore to end their “rivalry” with the actor. They have also made chilling statements about wanting to kill him, viewing the 1998 blackbuck killing as a deeply offensive act against their community’s cultural heritage. The Bishnoi community, through former MP Jaswant Singh Bishnoi, has emphasized the importance of the blackbuck, stating, “Deer is our identity, and it is necessary for them to survive.”
In response to these threats, Salman Khan has taken significant security measures. Reports suggest he has purchased a bulletproof Nissan Patrol SUV worth ₹2 crore and is arranging to ship it from Dubai, as the vehicle is unavailable in India. This incident highlights the seriousness of the ongoing threats against Salman Khan and the deep-rooted cultural tensions that continue to fuel the feud between the actor and the Bishnoi community.