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Fawad Khan Condemns Pahalgam Terror Attack as FWICE Calls for Ban on Pakistani Artists
Pakistani actor Fawad Khan has expressed his grief over the terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam, even as controversy brews around his upcoming Bollywood film Abir Gulaal. The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) has announced a renewed ban on Pakistani artists in the wake of the attack, and is demanding that the film be blocked from release in India.
Taking to Instagram, Fawad Khan wrote, “Deeply saddened to hear the news of the heinous attack in Pahalgam. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims of this horrifying incident, and we pray for strength and healing for their families in this difficult time.” The actor was set to make his Bollywood return in Abir Gulaal, co-starring Vaani Kapoor, with a scheduled release date of May 9.
Vaani Kapoor also reacted to the tragedy on social media. In an emotional note, she said, “Have been numb, at a loss of words since the time I have seen the attack on innocent people in Pahalgam. Gutted. Devastated. My prayers are with the families.”
However, FWICE issued a strong statement reiterating its stance against involving Pakistani nationals in Indian film projects. In its official release, the federation said, “This despicable act, claimed by The Resistance Front (TRF)—a proxy of the Pakistan-based terrorist organisation Lashkar-e-Taiba—specifically targeted a religious community, echoing the horror of the Pulwama attack on February 14, 2019.”
The FWICE emphasised that it is reactivating its 2019 directive which called for “complete non-cooperation with all Pakistani artists, singers, and technicians within the Indian film and entertainment industry.” The federation confirmed that it would take strict action against any collaboration with Pakistani professionals, even if such projects are executed outside India.
Referring directly to Abir Gulaal, FWICE added, “Despite this ongoing directive, we have been made aware of the recent collaboration with Pakistani actor Fawad Khan. In light of the recent attack in Pahalgam, FWICE is once again compelled to issue a blanket boycott.”
“FWICE would like to emphasise that any member of our organisation or its affiliate associations—be it actors, directors, technicians, producers, or production houses—found cooperating with Pakistani personnel will be subject to disciplinary action. Further, we will take all necessary steps to ensure that Abir Gulaal is not released in India," read the statement.
The terror attack in Pahalgam occurred on Tuesday in the Baisaran Valley, where gunmen opened fire on tourists. The incident left 26 people dead and several injured, sending shockwaves through the country and prompting widespread condemnation.
