Veteran actor Suniel Shetty has addressed the widespread silence among Bollywood celebrities regarding the ongoing Operation Sindoor campaign, stating that fear of backlash is a major reason why many stars choose to stay silent on sensitive issues.
Speaking at a public event, Shetty acknowledged the criticism that Bollywood has received for not taking a more vocal stance on the high-profile campaign, which has dominated national headlines. Operation Sindoor, a government-led initiative targeting crimes against women and supporting survivors, has drawn significant attention from the public and media—but relatively little from the Hindi film industry.
“A lot of actors want to speak, but they are scared,” Shetty said candidly. “One wrong word and it can be twisted. We live in a time where things go viral in seconds, and people are judged immediately.”
He emphasized that many celebrities do feel strongly about such issues but often hold back out of concern for misinterpretation or online trolling. “It’s not that they don’t care. It’s that they’re unsure how their words will be perceived,” he added.
Shetty, known for his straightforward nature and active involvement in social causes, also stressed the importance of standing up for what is right, regardless of consequences. He urged the industry to move beyond fear and take principled stands, especially when it comes to issues involving justice and women’s safety.
His remarks have since sparked a fresh wave of debate online, with fans and commentators calling on other prominent voices in the industry to join the conversation around Operation Sindoor.
While some have praised Shetty’s honesty, others continue to question Bollywood’s overall silence, especially when regional industries and public figures have been more vocal.
As the campaign gains momentum across the country, industry observers note that statements like Shetty’s could encourage more celebrities to engage openly with critical social issues.
