Hema Malini writes to Om Birla flagging 'cultural fascism' in Bengal; calls it 'deeply distressing'

Actor-politician and BJP MP Hema Malini has written to Om Birla, the Speaker of the Lok Sabha, expressing concern over what she described as “cultural fascism” in West Bengal. In her communication, the Mathura MP said the situation was “deeply distressing” and claimed that it was negatively affecting members of the cultural and artistic community.

Malini stated in a social media post that she had highlighted in her letter how alleged restrictions in the state were adversely impacting people associated with the cultural world. According to her, the situation not only posed a “security risk” but also had a damaging effect on the livelihoods of artists and performers. Speaking to reporters in Parliament, the BJP leader said the issue stemmed from her personal experience, though she did not elaborate. She expressed sadness over what she described as the treatment of artists and questioned why such conditions were affecting cultural activities in the state.

The remarks have added to the ongoing political debate around cultural and artistic freedom in West Bengal. In recent months, controversy had also emerged around the release of certain films in the state, with some filmmakers alleging unofficial restrictions, while the state government denied any role and attributed the issues to other factors.