Indian Cine Workers Appeal to PM Modi for a Ban on Pakistani Artists Online

The All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) has addressed a formal letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, expressing concerns over the reactivation of social media accounts of Pakistani actors in India. Notably, the Instagram account of Mawra Hocane became visible in India after previously being banned following the Pahalgam incident.

AICWA’s Concern

The statement highlighted, “It is extremely troubling and unacceptable that social media profiles of Pakistani artists, such as Mawra Hocane and Yumna Zaidi, are accessible once more in India. This digital reappearance is an insult to the sacrifices of our fallen soldiers and deeply affects every Indian who lost loved ones to terrorist activities backed by Pakistan.”

The letter further stated, “Pakistan has historically been a seat of terrorism. From incidents like the 26/11 attacks to Pulwama and Uri, this nation has consistently attacked India through terror. Numerous brave soldiers have sacrificed their lives protecting our borders, and many civilians have suffered at the hands of Pakistan-sponsored acts of terror.”

Call for Action

AICWA put forth several demands in the letter:

1. Immediately implement a nationwide digital blackout of all Pakistani social media accounts and channels.
2. Prohibit any future collaborations involving Pakistani individuals in Indian media, OTT platforms, and advertisement.
3. Establish a long-term cultural disconnect from Pakistan to honor the sacrifices made by the Indian Armed Forces and to acknowledge the loss endured by their families.

Recently, AICWA had urged the suspension of Diljit Dosanjh’s social media presence in India and called for the removal of his songs and films from platforms like YouTube and Spotify. This reaction stemmed from the casting of Pakistani actress Hania Aamir in his film “Sardaar Ji 3.”