The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) has called upon leading Indian streaming platforms—Netflix, Prime Video, and JioCinema—to stop streaming Turkish content, citing Turkiye’s political support for Pakistan on matters sensitive to India’s national interest. The appeal comes amid rising diplomatic tension and growing public sentiment against Turkish cultural exports.
In a public statement issued on May 16, the film and television workers’ body expressed “serious concern and strong objection” over the continued promotion of Turkish shows in India. The federation represents technicians, artists, and workers from 36 crafts within the Indian entertainment industry.
Popular Turkish dramas such as Binbir Gece, As the Crow Flies, Another Self, Terzi, and Ethos have cultivated strong Indian audiences over the past two decades. However, recent geopolitical developments—including Turkiye’s criticism of India’s counter-terror strikes in Pakistan and its perceived alignment with Islamabad on Kashmir—have led to increased backlash.
FWICE warns against filming and collaboration with Turkiye
FWICE also issued a separate advisory to Indian film producers, urging them to avoid selecting Turkiye as a shooting destination. The statement argued that any collaboration or investment in the country would indirectly support a regime that does not align with India’s strategic interests.
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“Given Turkey’s consistent political stance in support of Pakistan, it is not advisable for the Indian film industry to engage in partnerships that could benefit that nation,” the union said.
The appeal extends beyond streaming platforms. FWICE has requested the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to intervene and consider regulatory steps against Turkish content distribution in India. The union believes such action would support domestic content creation and reinforce India’s cultural and strategic positioning globally.
Boycott calls grow amid geopolitical fallout
The boycott momentum follows the Pahalgam terror attack, which resulted in 26 civilian casualties. India responded with targeted strikes on terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Reports suggest Turkish drones may have been deployed by Islamabad during the conflict.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s reaffirmation of support for Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has further fuelled the controversy. Travel platforms like EaseMyTrip and Ixigo have also advised Indian tourists to avoid visiting Turkiye, as anti-Turkish sentiment rises across social media and consumer spaces.
