Film industry calls for boycott on Turkey amid India-Pakistan tensions

Mumbai: Adopting the policy of “nation comes first”, film industry bodies like Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) and All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) have called for a boycott on shooting locations in Turkey for its support to Pakistan during the conflict with India.

The FWICE, the apex body representing 36 crafts of workers, technicians, and artists in the Indian media and entertainment industry, strongly urged all Indian film producers to reconsider choosing Turkey as a shooting destination in light of its growing support towards Pakistan on matters that deeply concern 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,” they said and appealed to all production houses, line producers, actors, directors, and crew members across the Indian film fraternity to stand in solidarity with the nation and boycott Turkey as a location for film shoots until such time that the country revisits its diplomatic stance and aligns with principles of mutual respect and non-interference.

The AICWA announced a complete boycott of Turkey for all film shoots and cultural collaborations.

“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.

According to him, Turkish actors, filmmakers, production houses, and other creative professionals will no longer be permitted to work in the Indian entertainment industry. “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,” Gupta added.