Talking about his absence from the Indian music industry, Atif Aslam said the restrictions were part of a wider decision concerning Pakistani artistes. Indian artistes are also banned in Pakistan now.” The restrictions on Pakistani artistes in India intensified in 2016 amid heightened tensions between the two countries. That year, an Atif Aslam concert in Gurgaon was cancelled after the district administration advised organisers to defer the event. Political groups had also protested against Pakistani artistes performing in India.