The long-standing enmity between gangster Lawrence Bishnoi and Bollywood actor Salman Khan is rooted in Salman’s alleged involvement in the 1998 blackbuck poaching case. The blackbuck holds deep significance for the Bishnoi community, which reveres the animal as sacred. Despite Salman denying the accusations, Lawrence has continued to issue threats, escalating tensions over time.
In a recent interview, Ramesh Bishnoi, Lawrence Bishnoi cousin, added new insights into the feud. He claimed that years ago, Salman attempted to resolve the conflict by offering financial compensation. According to Ramesh, Salman met with Bishnoi community leaders and presented a chequebook, suggesting they fill in any amount they deemed fair to end the dispute. Ramesh emphasized, “If we were after money, we would have accepted it,” indicating that their concerns were tied more to principles than financial gain.
Ramesh further addressed allegations by Salman’s father, Salim Khan, who suggested Lawrence was motivated by financial gain. He clarified that Lawrence’s opposition to Salman is ideologically driven, not monetary. Ramesh explained that the Bishnoi community was profoundly affected by the blackbuck incident, saying, “Hamara khoon khol raha tha uss waqt” (Our blood was boiling at that time). He added that Lawrence’s significant land holdings in India, totaling 110 acres, were sufficient for him financially, reinforcing that his actions were not rooted in any need for extortion.
