AICWA Demands Full Ban on Pakistani Artists After Operation Sindoor Fallout:

Suspense crime, Digital Desk : Pakistan artists faced a complete ban in India when the All India Cine Workers Association (AICWA) enforced strict rules on their entry into the country. The ban now extends after actor Mahira Khan and Fawad Khan commented regarding India’s precision military operation against terror bases in Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Kashmir; also termed as “Operation Sindoor”.

AICWA condemns statements and remarks as “Insult to martyrs and victims”

On the 7th of May, AICWA took to their official X handle and called out “marsh prince and queen” for their unpatriotic remarks regarding the valor of Indian soldiers as “disrespectful” and “insult to innocents and soilders.” The association expressed its righteous anger over a so-called counter strike narrative which is deemed as a so-called cowardly approach exercise in the aftermath of terror attack Pahalgam which killed 26 civilians.

Media Release

All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) Strongly Condemns Anti-India Statements by Mahira Khan and Fawad Khan

Mumbai, India – The All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) strongly condemns the anti-India statements made by Pakistani actress Mahira Khan and… pic.twitter.com/pEjqzAgy8a
— All Indian Cine Workers Association (@AICWAOfficial) May 7, 2025

AICWA set their previous stance again regarding any relations India shares with Pakistan filmmakers, actors, and even sponsors from Pakistan. The association exclaims “Indian artists are not compelled to any form of a deal or even cross global pathways with any international platform.” The statement urges the Indian film industry and compatriots into respecting the national sentiments.

Critique Over the Defense of Creative Freedom

The Association also called out Indian filmmakers and musicians for continuing to support Pakistani entertainers for the sake of ‘creativity’ and ‘artistic expression.’ “Supporting these artists under the pretext of art is a betrayal of national pride,” AICWA remarked, pointing out that such actions elide the sacrifices of the Indian armed forces.

Committee Statement on Music Companies and Stakeholders in the Industry

AICWA further pointed out that some Indian music labels still offer opportunities to Pakistani vocalists, with a number of Indian performers working with them at international venues. The Association labeled these actions “regrettable,” calling for a unified resolve to the ban throughout the industry.

“Nation Must Come First”: Cultural Connections Are Secondary

In this reaction, AICWA reasserted its nationalistic position: “This is not simply about art. It is about showing support to the country during its most challenging times.” AICWA made a plea to every segment of the Indian film industry, including regional cinema, to refocus on domestic priorities vis-à-vis foreign artistic collaborations considering cross border relations.