Saif Ali Khan stabbing case: Are Bollywood celebrities soft targets?
Dubai: The shocking stabbing of Bollywood actor Saif Ali Khan on January 16 has raised alarms about the vulnerability of celebrities in private spaces.
The actor, married to Kareena Kapoor Khan, was stabbed on January 16 early morning while protecting his children and a domestic worker during a burglary attempt. He is now recovering at Lilavati Hospital.
The incident has drawn comparisons to Kim Kardashian’s 2016 Paris robbery, where she was held at gunpoint in a hotel. Both cases highlight the risks faced by public figures, even in supposedly secure environments.
The Bishnoi gang, notorious for targeting Bollywood celebrities, is under investigation. The gang previously threatened Salman Khan and was linked to a shooting attempt on him. Saif, implicated in the blackbuck poaching case with Salman, may have been targeted for similar reasons.
Adding to concerns, Indian politician Baba Siddique—known for hosting lavish Iftar parties for Bollywood—was recently gunned down, allegedly by the same gang. These incidents underline the growing danger posed by organized crime to high-profile individuals.
Mumbai’s safety has come under scrutiny, but Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis denied claims of declining security. He emphasised the government’s commitment to maintaining law and order. Actor Raveena Tandon also echoed concerns over rising crime in Bandra, a colony of Bollywood stars.
“Targeting celebrities in what used to be a safe area has become rampant,” she said, highlighting incidents like chain snatching, hawker mafias, and land encroachment. “We need stronger measures to protect residents from such criminal elements.”
As police continue their investigation into the attack, residents and fans are calling for enhanced security measures, not only for celebrities but for the general public as well.