Poonam Dhillon Calls Out Silent Stars in Politics, Who’s Listening?

June 30, 2025: Veteran actor and politician Poonam Dhillon has expressed her disappointment at fellow actors-turned-politicians for their lack of participation in Parliament and silence on issues facing the entertainment industry.

Poonam, who currently heads the Cine and Television Artists Association (CINTAA), criticized celebrities who enter politics but don’t use their position to advocate for artists. “Unfortunately, many of them don’t even attend Parliament,” she said bluntly.

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Dhillon highlighted the severe payment delays faced by television actors today. “Unlike earlier times when actors were paid at the end of the day or month, now TV actors have to wait up to 90 days. These are small artists who work a few days a month and earn in thousands, not lakhs or crores,” she explained.

She lamented that many actor-MPs have failed to raise their voices about such pressing industry issues. “Taking actors frivolously has happened because of them. But just because you’re an actor doesn’t mean you’re not socially aware,” she added, citing names like Jaya Bachchan, Arun Govil, and Shatrughan Sinha as positive exceptions.

Poonam also spoke about the financial insecurity many artists face post-career. “Actors have short careers. After five to seven years of work, they might have to survive until 80 or 90. Some form of relief or facilities should be considered, especially in taxation,” she argued.

Reflecting on her own journey into politics, Poonam said it stemmed from her social work and desire to make real change. “I was working with NGOs on drug awareness, organ donation, and disability rights. But real change needs legislation—so I joined politics in 2004, not for power, but for purpose.”

Known for her memorable roles in classics like Noorie, Sohni Mahiwal, and Teri Meherbaniyan, Poonam has also made her mark on television and reality shows. But it’s her outspoken stance on issues facing artists that may define her legacy beyond the screen.