Amid rising backlash, FWICE demands Diljit Dosanjh’s passport cancellation and a boycott of his film over the casting of a Pakistani actress
24 June 2025, New Delhi
Punjabi superstar Diljit Dosanjh has come under fire for casting Pakistani actress Hania Aamir in his upcoming film Sardaarji 3, sparking strong reactions from the Indian film workers’ body FWICE (Federation of Western India Cine Employees). The organization has formally urged the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to revoke Dosanjh’s passport and ban the release of the film in India.
The controversy comes amid heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, especially following an attempted drone strike near the Golden Temple. Critics say that promoting a cross-border collaboration at such a sensitive time displays “gross insensitivity.”
FWICE’s statement condemned the collaboration, claiming it is “a blatant disregard for national sentiment.” They also alleged that Hania Aamir has, in the past, made remarks against Indian armed forces and justified violent actions — accusations that have intensified the uproar.
“We urge the government to revoke Diljit Dosanjh’s passport and prevent the release of Sardaarji 3 across India,” the FWICE letter stated. “This isn’t about cinema; it’s about the sanctity of national identity and respect.”
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The union has also appealed to the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) to withhold clearance for the movie and has requested OTT platforms and producers to cut professional ties with the actor and his team.
Despite the growing outrage, Dosanjh has not issued a direct response. However, he posted a cryptic Instagram story that read, “Censored before release?”, interpreted by many as a reference to both the controversy around Sardaarji 3 and his unreleased political film Punjab ’95, which has also faced certification delays.
The Ministry of External Affairs and CBFC have yet to make an official statement on the matter.
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