The Bombay High Court declines to prohibit Pakistani artists and lectures the petitioner on patriotism: "A person with excellent intentions

 The Bombay High Court declines to prohibit Pakistani artists and lectures the petitioner on patriotism: "A person with excellent intentions

A petition that sought to prohibit Pakistani artists from working or performing in India was dismissed by the Bombay High Court.

Faaiz Anwar Qureshi, a self-described filmmaker and artist, filed the court petition, which asked that the Indian government outlaw all forms of business relationships with Pakistani artists. The petition demanded that Indian residents and businesses be forbidden from hiring, soliciting work from, or collaborating with Pakistani artists, vocalists, lyricists, and technicians who work in the film industry.

The argument was emphatically rejected by the division bench, which was made up of Justices Sunil Shukre and Firdosh Pooniwalla. According to the court, such a move would be detrimental to promoting intercultural understanding and togetherness both inside India and beyond its border with Pakistan. The court additionally said that hatred against foreigners, especially those from close neighboring nations, is not a sign of patriotism.

"A genuine patriot is someone who is unselfish, someone who is dedicated to the sake of his nation, and he cannot be that unless he is someone who is good at heart. A person with decent intentions would support any action that fosters harmony, peace, and tranquility both within and outside of their own nation, according to PTI.

"One must understand that in want to be a patriot, one need not be inimical toward those especially abroad especially, from the neighbouring country," the judge said.

The bench emphasized the ability of the arts to transcend national and cultural borders while highlighting their uniting potential. They emphasized the importance of such initiatives in promoting international harmony and peace.

Indian cricket squad visiting Pakistan

The cricket team from Pakistan's participation in the ongoing World Cup in India was another topic raised by the court. In line with Article 51 of the Indian Constitution, which promotes international peace and security, it praised the Indian government's aggressive steps to make this possible.

Additionally, the petitioner requested that the court cease granting visas to Pakistani artists and punish those who disobeyed the order.

He stated that Pakistani artists' presence in India during the World Cup may limit Indian artists' access to employment. However, the bench rejected these arguments, saying that the court cannot order the government to create certain laws or policies.