FWICE demands total ban on Pakistani artists post Pahalgam attack: Hindustani agar unke saath kaam krega toh usse desh drohi...

FWICE demands total ban on Pakistani artists

The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) has firmly opposed the participation of Pakistani artists in Indian cinema in the wake of the devastating terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on April 22, which claimed the lives of 26 civilians.

In the wake of rising tensions between India and Pakistan, FWICE General Secretary Ashoke Dubey has called for a complete ban, citing growing public sentiment and national interest.

Speaking to ANI, Ashoke Dubey stated, "Since this is a matter of national interest, the nation comes first. The continuous attacks, including the recent one in Pahalgam on our tourists, are shameful. We have again issued a press release stating that if any of our members are found working with Pakistani artists or technicians, we will take action against them and stop working with them."

By sending letters to all of its affiliated associations, FWICE has taken official action to reaffirm the prohibition against working with Pakistani personnel. According to Dubey, a letter advocating for a stricter approach has also been sent to the Minister of Information and Broadcasting.

"We are writing letters to all the associations affiliated with us. If anyone is found engaging in such activities again, they will not be allowed to work in the industry," he said.

He further insisted, "In the letter to the I&B Minister, we also said that a notification should be issued. Humara koi bhi sadasya, Hindustan ka koi bhi sadasya agar unke saath kaam kar raha hai, toh uske upar desh droh ka mukadma kiya jaye taaki wo aage se ye sab cheez karne se pehle 1000 baar sochne par."

This crackdown also affects the upcoming film Abir Gulaal, which features Pakistani actor Fawad Khan and was scheduled for release on 9 May 2025. Sources in the I&B Ministry have indicated the film will not be cleared for screening in India. FWICE had earlier written to the film’s producer, Vivek Agarwal, cautioning him against its release.

Also Read: Local vendors near Mannat struggle as Shah Rukh Khan moves out with family

"The film Abir Gulaal was set to release on the 9th... If you release this film, we will also cease cooperation with every unit member associated with it, whether it be the cameraman or the director," Dubey warned.

Fawad Khan, previously seen in Ae Dil Hai Mushkil (2016), was barred from working in India after the Uri attack in 2016. Abir Gulaal was set to mark his return to Bollywood after nearly nine years.