MEA Distances Itself From Battle of Galwan Film

Government says film-making falls under relevant authorities, not External Affairs Ministry

January 17, 2026: Ahead of the release of Salman Khan’s upcoming film Battle of Galwan, the Ministry of External Affairs on Friday clarified that it has no role in matters related to film-making in India. Responding to reports claiming that the MEA had raised objections to the film, spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said such issues are handled by relevant authorities and not by the External Affairs Ministry. The film, produced by Salman Khan and Salma Khan, is scheduled to release on April 17.

Directed by Apoorva Lakhia, Battle of Galwan is based on the 2020 clash between Indian and Chinese troops in eastern Ladakh. Salman Khan essays the role of Colonel Bikkumalla Santosh Babu, who laid down his life along with 19 soldiers of the 16 Bihar Regiment during the Galwan Valley confrontation. Colonel Babu was posthumously awarded the Maha Vir Chakra, India’s second-highest wartime gallantry honour, for his bravery.

A teaser of the film, released on Salman Khan’s 60th birthday on December 27, generated significant buzz and also drew criticism from sections of Chinese media. The Galwan Valley clash on June 15, 2020, marked a major escalation in India-China tensions, resulting in the deaths of 20 Indian soldiers. While China later acknowledged the loss of five of its personnel, the incident continues to cast a long shadow over bilateral relations, even as the Indian government maintains that cinema remains a form of artistic expression.