Ranveer Singh row reaches court: Veteran Producer T P Aggarwal challenges FWICE's non-cooperation directive

Veteran producer and former industry body chief T P Aggarwal has filed a petition before the Bombay Civil Court at Dindoshi challenging the practice of industry bodies issuing bans and non-cooperation directives against film personalities.The petition has been filed against the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) and the Indian Motion Picture Producers' Association (IMPPA), contending that no individual, association, or trade body has the legal authority to impose a ban or direct members of the film fraternity to cease working with any person. Court notices have been served to both organisations today.Aggarwal is among the film industry's most senior and influential figures. He served as President of IMPPA for 17 years and was elected President of the Film Federation of India (FFI) on four occasions. He currently holds the position of Patron at both FFI and IMPPA.The legal move comes amid renewed debate over the powers exercised by industry associations following FWICE's recent non-cooperation directive against actor Ranveer Singh in connection with his ongoing dispute with production house Excel Entertainment over Don 3. For decades, industry bodies have played a significant role in mediating disputes within the Hindi film industry. However, the legality of blanket bans and boycott calls has come under scrutiny. Speaking on the matter, Aggarwal said, “The film industry thrives on collaboration, and it is important that matters of this nature are addressed through proper legal and professional channels. Any attempt to discourage people from working with an individual should not be taken lightly. Such actions can have far-reaching consequences for livelihoods and creative freedom, and therefore must be dealt with in a fair, transparent, and lawful manner.”