Film body flags threats to celebrities in letter to Fadnavis, seeks his appointment

The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) wrote a letter to Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Wednesday, seeking an urgent appointment over rising security threats to members of the entertainment industry. This comes amid the wake of celebrities from the entertainment circuit receiving death threats and being subjected to security scares.

In their letter, FWICE wrote, “In recent days, several eminent and renowned personalities from the film, television, and digital media industry have reportedly received threats and have been subjected to alarming security scares. These incidents have not only caused distress to the individuals directly concerned but have also created an atmosphere of anxiety and uncertainty across the entire industry. The recurring nature of such threats, whether direct or indirect, poses a serious question on the safety framework required for those associated with this vital sector.”

In an industry that thrives on collaboration and collective effort, even a ripple of uncertainty can send shockwaves across thousands of livelihoods. The film body further wrote that as concerns over safety and security grow, the impact is being felt far beyond individual artiste.

"FWICE represents scores of workers, including artists, technicians, daily wage earners, backstage workers, and numerous other skilled and unskilled professionals who form the backbone of the entertainment industry. Any threat to prominent members of the fraternity inevitably impacts thousands of workers whose livelihoods depend on the smooth and secure functioning of production. The prevailing environment of fear is beginning to affect shooting schedules, production planning, and overall morale within the industry,” they wrote.

FWICE even



requested for appropriate measures that can be adopted to ensure the safety of all. Given that Maharashtra, particularly Mumbai, serves as the hub of India’s film and television industry, it is essential that strong and visible measures be taken to ensure the safety and confidence of all stakeholders. We humbly request that this matter be formally registered with your good office and that appropriate steps be considered to strengthen preventive security mechanisms, enhance coordination with law enforcement agencies, and reassure the industry of the Government’s continued support and protection,” the letter added.

“We firmly believe that under your able leadership and guidance, effective measures can be undertaken to address these concerns promptly and decisively. We therefore request you to kindly grant us an appointment at your earliest convenience so that we may present the situation in detail and seek your valuable guidance and intervention in safeguarding the interests and security of the entire media and entertainment fraternity,” the letter concluded.

The decision came after the recent incidents surrounding the celebrities, including a firing outside filmmaker Rohit Shetty’s house on February 1 where unidentified assailants discharge four rounds outside Shetty’s residence, triggering alarm within the film industry. Five individuals were subsequently detained, and officials have now confirmed that MCOCA sections have been invoked, citing the gravity of the offence.

Another incident surfaced when Ranveer Singh reportedly received a threatening WhatsApp voice note demanding crores. In both cases, gangster Lawrence Bishnoi allegedly claimed responsibility, further heightening concerns within the film industry over the safety of its members.