FWICE Asks Indian Producers To Refrain From Shooting In Turkey Citing Country's Growing Support For Pakistan
The FWICE has appealed to Indian film producers to refrain from choosing Turkey as a shooting destination, citing the country’s continuous support for Pakistan.
A ceasefire between India and Pakistan might have been announced but the tensions continue to remain between the two countries. Amid these tensions, the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) has now appealed to Indian film producers to refrain from choosing Turkey as a shooting destination, citing Turkey's continuous support for Pakistan on matters affecting India's national interests.
“FWICE has always stood firm in its belief that "nation comes first." In view of recent developments and Turkey's consistent positioning in support of Pakistan, which has raised concerns regarding national integrity and security, we believe it is not in the best interests of the Indian film industry to invest or collaborate in any form that could indirectly support or benefit such a nation,” FWICE Chief Advisor Ashoke Pandit and President BN Tiwari said in a joint statement.
“Turkey's stance has been observed not just diplomatically but also in various international forums, where it has taken positions contrary to India's sovereign interests. As an industry deeply rooted in Indian soil and culture, we cannot remain indifferent to actions that undermine our nation's dignity or security,” the statement added.
The All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) have also called for a boycott on shooting locations in Turkey as the country continues to support Pakistan during the conflict with India.
“As a responsible and patriotic organization committed to the interests of India, AICWA has decided on a complete ban on shooting in Turkey, No Bollywood or Indian film projects will be shot in Turkey, effective immediately. No Indian producers, production houses, directors, or financiers will be allowed to take any film, television, or digital content projects to Turkey,” AICWA President Suresh Shyamlal Gupta said, as per Deccan Herald.
“Any existing contracts or agreements with Turkish entities must be reviewed and, where possible, terminated,” he said."The AICWA will closely monitor the activities of Indian film professionals and organisations to ensure compliance with this directive. Strict action will be taken against any individual or entity found violating this decision. This boycott is a strong message that the Indian film industry will not support or engage with any country that actively works against India’s national interests,” he added.
Earlier, the film bodies had also urged for a complete ban on Pakistani artists from working in India.
This development came after a deadly terrorist attack that took place in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam on April 22.
