Hema Malini (BJP MP from Mathura) has formally addressed Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla regarding what she describes as 'cultural fascism' in West Bengal. In her letter, she detailed experiences where she and fellow artists were denied permission to perform due to state government prioritization of political events at the same venues. Malini expressed that this pattern of delayed or denied permissions has been consistent, leading to significant uncertainty and disruption for artists and event organizers. She stated that the situation is both a security risk and detrimental to the livelihoods of many in the cultural sector. Malini called for cultural spaces to be kept free from political considerations, labeling the current environment as 'unfortunate and unacceptable.' Her concerns come at a critical time, with the West Bengal Assembly elections approaching, highlighting the intersection of culture and politics in the region.