MANSA – The tension surrounding the controversial film Lawrence of Punjab has taken a dangerous turn. Balkaur Singh Sidhu, father of the late Punjabi singer Sidhu Moosewala, has reportedly received a death threat via a WhatsApp call from a foreign number after publicly opposing the movie’s release.
The film, which is based on the life of incarcerated gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, has been a point of contention for Balkaur Singh, who argues that such media glorifies organized crime.
A Chilling Message
According to police reports, the threat was explicit and targeted. The caller warned Balkaur Singh that the film would be released “at any cost” and that no amount of opposition could halt its progress.
The message reportedly contained harrowing ultimatums, including:
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Direct Violence: Threats of being shot or targeted with a bomb.
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A “Shroud” Warning: The sender told Balkaur Singh to abandon his current documentary projects and instead “prepare his own shroud.”
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A Shift in Tactics: The message claimed the group is no longer seeking extortion money but will instead take “direct action” against those who stand in their way.
The threat also allegedly named several high-ranking police officials and politicians, suggesting a broader scope of intimidation.
The Stand Against “Lawrence of Punjab”
Balkaur Singh has been a vocal critic of the biopic, asserting that the film sends a “wrong message to the youth” and serves to encourage criminal activity rather than deter it.
“It will convey a negative message to the youth and fuel criminal behavior,” Balkaur had previously stated, urging authorities to intervene in the film’s production and distribution.
Official Investigation Underway
The Punjab Police have moved quickly to address the security concerns. DSP Harjinder Singh Gill confirmed that a formal inquiry has been launched.
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Foreign Trace: Authorities are currently tracking the digital footprint of the international WhatsApp number to identify the origin of the call.
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Security Review: Every angle of the case, including the potential involvement of organized crime syndicates, is being scrutinized to ensure the safety of the Sidhu family.
As the investigation continues, the debate over the ethics of gangster-based cinema in Punjab remains at a fever pitch, with this latest threat highlighting the high stakes involved for those speaking out against it.
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