Film Industry Organization Urges PM Modi to Halt Broadcast of India-Pakistan Match

The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE), a prominent organization representing film technicians and artists, has appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Sony TV to refrain from broadcasting the upcoming Asia Cup 2025 cricket match between India and Pakistan. The match is scheduled for September 14th and marks the first time the two teams will meet on the cricket field since a terrorist attack in Pahalgam. FWICE, encompassing 36 different technical and artistic categories within the film industry, argues that broadcasting the match would go against the sentiments of the Indian public. The organization cited the 2019 Pulwama attack, where 40 soldiers lost their lives, as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made for the nation. They believe airing the match would disregard the sacrifices of the martyrs. Furthermore, the letter from FWICE referenced the April 2025 attack in Pahalgam, where 26 people were tragically killed. The organization views the broadcasting of the match as prioritizing entertainment and profit over national sentiments. FWICE emphasized the importance of national interest and the dignity of citizens, asserting these values should always take precedence over entertainment or commercial gains. They urged Sony TV to consider this matter and show respect for the nation’s sentiments.