FWICE’s Non-Cooperation Directive Sparks Industry Backlash
The ongoing ‘Don 3′ controversy has taken a new turn with former Indian Motion Picture Producers’ Association (IMPPA) President TP Aggarwal launching a scathing attack on the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE). Aggarwal has termed the federation’s recent non-cooperation directive against Ranveer Singh as ‘hooliganism’, accusing them of acting unilaterally without consulting other major film bodies. The trouble began last month when FWICE issued the directive over Ranveer’s exit from the Farhan Akhtar-directed franchise, claiming a pre-production loss of Rs 45 crore.
Aggarwal, who has also reportedly filed a petition in the Bombay Civil Court against both FWICE and IMPPA, insists that the decision was taken in a dictatorial manner. He pointed out that key organisations like the Cine & TV Artistes’ Association (CINTAA), of which Ranveer Singh is a member, were completely kept out of the loop. “After FWICE issued the ban, I found out these people didn’t talk to any producer association, didn’t call anyone, they didn’t even call CINTAA,” Aggarwal said, as reported by IANS. He stressed that such a major decision should have involved multiple stakeholders from the film fraternity.
‘No One is Superior’: Aggarwal Calls for Unity
The veteran producer didn’t mince words when criticising the federation’s approach, calling for an end to what he described as ‘dictatorship’. Aggarwal emphasised that the film industry functions best when all associations work together. “They sat and took the decision themselves. You should have at least… taken other associations into confidence. If they had sat and made their decision then I would have had no objection but you cannot do this kind of hooliganism that you will ban him from now on,” he stated.
Aggarwal revealed that he has filed an individual petition making IMPPA a party as well, questioning why the producers’ body didn’t take immediate action. He noted that while IMPPA had written back to FWICE stating they could not ban the actor, the situation had escalated unnecessarily. “They should fix their attitude and should end dictatorship. We all should sit together, talk comfortably and lovingly. No one is superior, no one is junior,” Aggarwal added, urging all parties to find a middle ground and resolve the matter amicably.
Ranveer Singh Maintains Dignified Silence Amidst the Row
Meanwhile, the actor himself has chosen to stay above the fray. Following the FWICE directive, Ranveer broke his silence through an official statement from his spokesperson, making it clear that he would not engage in public mudslinging. The statement read, “Ranveer Singh holds the highest regard for the film fraternity and for everyone associated with the Don franchise. Throughout the recent developments surrounding Don 3, he has consciously chosen to maintain silence, believing that professional discussions and personal equations are best handled with dignity, maturity and mutual respect.”
The spokesperson clarified that while several narratives and speculations have surfaced, Ranveer has never considered it necessary to respond publicly. The actor’s focus remains firmly on his work and future commitments. The statement concluded by saying, “Choosing restraint and grace in moments like these has always been a conscious decision on his part, and he will continue to maintain the same stance.” As the legal and industry-level debates heat up, Ranveer seems intent on letting his actions and the ongoing discussions in court and among film bodies take their course.