FWICE Protests India-Pakistan Cricket Match, Asks for Broadcast Ban

The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE), a leading body within the Indian film industry, has requested that the telecast of the upcoming India-Pakistan cricket match in the 2025 Asia Cup be stopped. The match is set to take place on September 14th, marking a sporting event between the two countries after a recent terrorist incident in Pahalgam. FWICE has sent a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Sony TV, urging them to reconsider the broadcast. The organization, which encompasses numerous film industry professionals across various technical and artistic fields, believes that airing the match could be seen as insensitive to national feelings. The letter draws attention to the Pulwama attack in February 2019, where 40 soldiers were killed. FWICE indicates that the broadcast would be disrespectful to the martyrs. The organization further cited the April 2025 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, where 26 lives were tragically lost. They believe that the broadcast of the match would be prioritizing entertainment and profit over the sentiments of the nation. FWICE referred to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting’s guidance to the Indian media and entertainment sector to avoid cooperation with Pakistan or its artists. Ashok Joy, a key figure at FWICE, highlighted that national interest and the dignity of Indian citizens should be valued above entertainment and any commercial gains. He appealed to Sony TV to reflect the nation’s sentiments.