Filmmaker Ram Gopal Varma has strongly criticized the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) for issuing a non-cooperation directive against actor Ranveer Singh over his exit from Don 3.

The controversy began after producer-director Farhan Akhtar reportedly complained that Ranveer's withdrawal from the project caused losses of around Rs 45 crore in pre-production costs. FWICE claimed it sent the actor three notices seeking his response but received none, prompting the directive.

Reacting on social media, Varma described FWICE as a "kangaroo court" and argued that the body has no legal authority to adjudicate disputes. He called the move an outdated display of power and urged that FWICE, not Ranveer, should face criticism.

Varma also defended the actor, saying stars like Ranveer drive the film industry by generating employment and attracting audiences. He suggested the dispute should be resolved directly between the concerned parties rather than through industry bodies.

Writer Shobhaa De also questioned FWICE's role, arguing that the issue should have been settled 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 on the actor but had only 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, maintaining that professional matters should be handled with dignity and mutual respect.

Source NDTV