Indian court rejects petition seeking ban on Pakistani artists

MUMBAI: In a significant legal development, the Bombay High Court has dismissed a petition that aimed to impose a ban on Pakistani artists performing in India. The petition, brought forward by Faaiz Anwar Qureshi, called for restrictions on Pakistani artists, including actors, musicians, singers, lyricists, and technicians, participating in Indian entertainment ventures.

A division bench comprising Justice Sunil B Shukre and Justice Firdosh P Pooniwalla made the decision while emphasizing the pivotal role of artistic exchanges in fostering peace and cultural harmony.

The court’s ruling underscored the importance of art, music, sports, culture, and dance as instruments for promoting unity. It conveyed a message of openness and inclusivity, stating, “A person who is good at heart would welcome in his country any activity which promotes peace, harmony, and tranquility within the country and across the border.”

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The ruling further articulated that being a patriot does not necessitate harboring animosity towards individuals from other countries, including neighboring ones.

The judgment also referenced a recent example of cross-border collaboration, citing the Pakistan Cricket Team’s visit to India for the ICC Cricket World Cup. This event served as a practical illustration of how cultural and sports exchanges can transcend boundaries and build bridges.

The court’s decision harks back to the debate that emerged in India in 2019 when several sections of society called for restrictions on cultural and artistic interactions with Pakistan. Consequently, prominent artists such as Fawad Khan, Mahira Khan, Atif Aslam, and Rahat Fateh Ali Khan had been refrained from working in India.