Indian filmmaker Ram Gopal Varma has openly criticised the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) for issuing a non-cooperation directive against Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh following his exit from Don 3.
The dispute arose after producer-director Farhan Akhtar claimed that Ranveer’s withdrawal caused losses of around Rs 45 crore in pre-production expenses. FWICE said it had issued three notices to the actor seeking a response, but received no reply, prompting the directive.
Varma, in a social media statement, described FWICE as a “kangaroo court” and said the body lacks legal authority to adjudicate such matters. He called the move an outdated exercise of power and argued that FWICE, not Ranveer, should face criticism. He also defended the actor, noting that stars like Ranveer sustain the industry by generating employment and attracting audiences, and suggested the dispute should be resolved privately between the parties.
Writer Shobhaa De also questioned FWICE’s role, asserting that the matter should have been handled through legal channels. She warned that the directive could negatively affect technicians and workers dependent on projects involving Ranveer Singh.
FWICE later clarified that it had not imposed a ban, but issued a temporary non-cooperation directive until the dispute is resolved.
Meanwhile, Ranveer Singh’s team said the actor has chosen to remain silent out of respect for the film fraternity and the Don franchise, emphasising that professional matters should be handled with dignity and mutual respect.
