Bombay HC Rejects Plea Seeking Ban On Pakistani Artists To Work In India

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• Oct 20, 2023 | Dhupali Das

The Bombay High Court has rejected a petition that called for a complete ban on Indian citizens, companies, and associations from collaborating with Pakistani artists...

Digital Desk: The Bombay High Court has rejected a petition that called for a complete ban on Indian citizens, companies, and associations from collaborating with Pakistani artists. The court declared that the petition represented a "retrograde step in promoting cultural harmony, unity, and peace" and lacked merit.

The petition, filed by a cine worker, sought directions from the Information and Broadcasting Ministry, the Ministry of External Affairs, and the Ministry of Home Affairs to impose a ban and restrict visas for Pakistani artists. However, the court presided over by Justice Sunil B Shukre and Justice Firdosh P Pooniwalla, observed that the Indian government's "positive steps" in promoting international peace and security would be undermined if such petitions were entertained. The court emphasized that activities promoting peace, harmony, and tranquility, including arts, music, sports, culture, and dance, transcend national boundaries and contribute to unity and harmony within and between nations.

The court's decision also highlighted that India had previously taken steps to promote cultural exchange, even in challenging times. It referenced the example of allowing the Pakistani cricket team to participate in the World Cricket Cup held in India, showcasing a commitment to fostering peaceful relations.

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This is not the first time the issue of collaboration with Pakistani artists has come under scrutiny in India. In 2016, the Indian Motion Picture Producers' Association (IMPPA) passed a resolution to ban Pakistani actors from the industry following the Uri attack. However, the court's recent decision emphasizes the importance of promoting cross-border cultural exchanges for peace and unity.

The court concluded that the petitioner's prayers for framing policy directions were beyond its scope, as it cannot direct the government or the legislature to frame policies in a particular manner. As a result, the petition was dismissed.

The verdict comes in the wake of previous collaborations between Indian and Pakistani artists, including actors Fawad Khan and Mahira Khan, as well as singers Atif Aslam and Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, who have all made contributions to the Indian entertainment industry.

The Bombay High Court's ruling underscores the significance of cultural harmony and the positive role that artistic collaborations can play in fostering better relations between nations.