New Delhi:
The All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) has issued a strong statement criticizing Pakistani actors Mahira Khan and Favad Khan for “anti-India” comments.
The association has also reiterated its long demand for a complete ban on Pakistani artists in India.
In her press release, Aicwa alleged that Mahira Khan referred to India’s military response as “severely cowardly” and accused Favad Khan of “supporting divisive narratives” instead of condemning terrorism.
The association stated that their comment was “derogatory towards the nation” and “an insult to the brave soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the country.”
AICWA said that working in India keeps “strict and full restrictions” on Pakistani artists, filmmakers and financiers. “No Indian artist will cooperate with any Pakistani talent, nor shared any global platform with them,” the statement said.
The tension between India and Pakistan increased after the Pahalgam terror attack on 22 April. In response, India retaliated on nine terrorist bases in Pakistan on 7 May, with an operation called Sindoor.
The association also criticized Indian music labels and artists, who continue to work with Pakistani artists in global stages, describing such cooperation “a betrayal of national pride”.
AICWA especially called Fawad Khan the film Abir Gulal for casting, “an insult to the sacrifices made by our brave soldiers,” said in the context of the 2019 Pulwama terror attack, which claimed the lives of more than 40 Indian paramilitary personnel. “What message does such a filmmakers want to give?” The association questioned.
The organization appealed to Indian filmmakers, producers and artists in Bollywood and regional industries to “prioritize national interest on artistic cooperation”.
AICWA has earlier made similar calls for restrictions on Pakistani artists, with which in 2016 and again in 2019, after incidents of cross -border struggle.