Why is AICWA Opposing the India-Pakistan Cricket Match?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- AICWA strongly opposes the India-Pakistan cricket match in Dubai.
- The organization calls for a nationwide boycott of the match.
- Recent terrorist attacks in India have amplified patriotic sentiments.
- Historical boycotts provide context for current sentiments.
- Patriotism is emphasized over profit in sports.
Mumbai, Sep 14 (NationPress) The All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) has vocally criticized the upcoming India–Pakistan cricket match set to take place in Dubai this Sunday.
This organization has previously prohibited Pakistani artists from working within India, while also urging a boycott of Indian films featuring Pakistani talent.
In a formal statement, they expressed, “As our nation grieves the heinous terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, where 26 innocent Indians were brutally murdered by Pakistani terrorists after being questioned about their faith and killed in front of their families, hosting a cricket match with Pakistan is nothing less than an affront to our martyrs and their families. The Government of India has already taken significant measures against Pakistan, including halting trade, obstructing the flow of water through shared rivers, and cutting cultural ties.”
Previously, AICWA had enforced a ban on actor-singer Diljit Dosanjh’s film ‘Sardaar Ji 3’. The organization asserted that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has chosen profit over national pride, attempting to normalize relations with a nation that harbors terrorism under the guise of sports. They deemed the match a profound betrayal to the sacrifices made by our soldiers and civilians who lost their lives due to Pakistan-sponsored terrorism.
They further stated, “On behalf of the entire Indian film industry and the citizens of India, AICWA earnestly appeals to the Honourable Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi Ji, to take immediate action and cancel this match with Pakistan. The Indian film industry, along with actors, actresses, filmmakers, and all associated individuals, must also boldly oppose this match, as this is the time to unite for our nation and for the courageous soldiers and innocent citizens who laid down their lives for India. We urge the film industry and the people of India to boycott BCCI and its decisions that prioritize profit over patriotism.”
Previously, Anurag Thakur, a Member of Parliament (MP) for Hamirpur, Himachal Pradesh, stated that India is compelled to play against Pakistan in the Asia Cup, as the tournament is organized by the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) or ICC. He emphasized that India does not engage in bilateral tournaments with Pakistan.
However, India had previously boycotted the 1986 Asia Cup in Sri Lanka due to strained diplomatic relations and security issues at that time. Additionally, India withdrew from the 2008 Champions Trophy in Pakistan citing security concerns.