IPL anchor Sahiba Bali responds after backlash over Pakistan praise and ‘Kashmir Files’ remarks

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Content creater and actress Sahiba Bali found herself at the centre of a social media storm during the IPL 2026 season after old video clips of her remarks resurfaced online. As the clips went viral across platforms like Instagram and X (formerly Twitter), they triggered strong reactions, drawing both criticism and debate.

The controversy began with two separate clips that quickly gained traction. In one, Bali spoke about a visit to Pakistan during her teenage years, describing the experience as “eye-opening” and calling the people she met “loving.” While the comments were originally shared in a personal context, many users online interpreted them differently, linking them to sensitive historical events and questioning the timing of such remarks resurfacing.

The second clip added fuel to the fire. In it, Bali was seen criticizing the film The Kashmir Files, calling it a “bad” film and suggesting it carried a propaganda narrative. This particular statement struck a nerve with many, as the film is closely tied to a deeply emotional and complex chapter of history. For critics, her words came across as dismissive, leading to widespread backlash.

The situation intensified further due to Bali’s increasing visibility during IPL 2026. As a familiar face in cricket broadcasting and someone with Kashmiri roots, her statements attracted even more attention, quickly turning the issue into a larger online debate.

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As the clips circulated, reactions poured in from all corners of social media. Hashtags began trending, and users engaged in heated discussions over whether Sahiba’s comments were misunderstood or inappropriate.

Some critics questioned her views and even raised concerns about her association with the Punjab Kings (PBKS) franchise, where she has been actively involved as a digital presenter. Others debated whether individuals in public-facing sports roles should be cautious about expressing opinions on politically sensitive topics.

At the same time, there were also voices urging people to consider the context of her statements. Supporters argued that old clips were being selectively edited and shared without full context, leading to misinterpretation.

However, the intensity of the backlash highlighted how quickly public perception can shift in the age of social media, especially when it involves figures associated with high-profile events like the IPL.

Amid growing criticism, Sahiba chose to address the situation directly through a detailed statement on her Instagram stories. In her response, she clarified that the viral video was an “old clip… shortened out of context” and emphasized that her comments reflected a personal opinion about a film rather than any dismissal of real-life events or suffering.

She acknowledged the sensitivity of the issue and made it clear that she is aware of the historical pain associated with the subject. According to her, she has “well known, vocalized and felt” the struggles of affected communities.

Sahiba also shared a personal reflection, writing, “The world is a scary place today with anger, hate and conflict, where I remember what my Dadi taught me: Nirbhau, Nirvair – without fear, without hate.”

Importantly, she expressed regret over how her words may have been perceived, stating, “However, I regret that my choice of words or opinion about a film have been dismissive and hurtful, which was not and never will be my intention.”

Reinforcing her stance, Sahiba described herself as a “proud Indian,” underlining her respect for the country and its history.

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