Following the horrific terrorist attack on tourists at Baisaran Valley in Pahalgam, the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) has renewed its directive to ban Pakistani artists from working in India.
Reacting to the move, actor Amit Sadh, during promotions for his upcoming film Pune Highway, voiced his strong support. Speaking to media, Sadh stated, “Country comes first. I believe in the government. I believe in the people who are running the country and the decisions that they take. Sometimes, there is no right or wrong in life. So I believe in the government. I believe in the actions they think they have to take for our nation.”
FWICE had first imposed the ban after the 2019 Pulwama terror attack. Now, with the tragic events in Pahalgam on April 22—where 26 lives were lost—the federation has reiterated its stand firmly.
Ashoke Dubey, General Secretary of FWICE, condemned the continued acts of terror and emphasized national unity:
“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.”
Dubey also mentioned that all associations linked with FWICE have been sent formal letters regarding the renewed directive. Additionally, FWICE has written to the Information and Broadcasting (I&B) Ministry, urging it to issue a notification that if any Indian member is found collaborating with Pakistani artists, they should face legal action, including charges of treason.
Tensions between India and Pakistan have sharply escalated in the wake of the Pahalgam attack, prompting heightened national security measures and stronger cultural stances within the Indian entertainment industry.