FWICE's Ashoke Pandit Demands Apology From Ram Gopal Varma, Claims ₹1 Crore Dues To Technicians

Ram Gopal Varma is now under the spotlight in the ongoing dispute between Ranveer Singh and the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE). On Wednesday, FWICE Chief Advisor Ashoke Pandit demanded a public apology from the filmmaker during a press conference held in Mumbai.

Ashoke Pandit Accuses Ram Gopal Varma Of Making Irresponsible Remarks

Pandit rejected Varma's characterisation of FWICE. Addressing the press, he insisted that the federation's role and contribution to the industry should not be undermined.

"FWICE is not a bully. It is a serious federation that represents the interests of workers across the film industry," Pandit said.

He further alleged that Varma himself has an unresolved financial dispute with industry technicians and claimed that the matter has remained pending for years.

Pandit said that the filmmaker had previously approached the federation and sought its support. He requested additional time to clear the outstanding dues. Varma had assured the organisation that the payments would be settled by March 2019, but the issue remains unresolved.

"Ram Gopal Varma used abusive language against the federation. We believe he owes an apology. The matter involving technicians has been pending since 2017, and despite assurances, the dues have not been cleared," Pandit stated.

What Triggered The War Of Words?

Ram Gopal Varma publicly criticised FWICE over its action against Ranveer Singh. Varma argued that the federation's non-cooperation directive was misguided and risked damaging its own credibility. He described the move as an outdated display of authority and questioned how such actions would serve the interests of industry workers.

Varma also challenged FWICE's authority to intervene in such matters. He argued that the organisation is neither a judicial body nor a government-appointed regulator. He compared the federation to a "kangaroo court" and claimed that it lacked the legal mandate to settle disputes between private parties.

Varma Defends Ranveer Singh's Position

Varma strongly supported Ranveer Singh, arguing that stars play a crucial role in sustaining the entertainment industry. According to him, they are central to the industry's economic ecosystem, helping generate employment opportunities for thousands of workers and driving theatrical business.

BAN “FWICE” and not @RanveerOfficial

The so called “BAN” or non co operation in the style of Gandhiji , will eventually become a BIG FAT JOKE on FWICE

This isn’t industry or worker protection, like they are claiming. It is just a pure performative muscle flexing , by an…

— Ram Gopal Varma (@RGVzoomin) May 29, 2026

Varma also urged stakeholders to avoid interfering in a private contractual disagreement and asked for the matter to be resolved between the concerned parties.

FWICE Withdraws Directive Against Ranveer Singh

The latest exchange comes just a day after Ranveer Singh issued a legal notice to FWICE, challenging the non-cooperation directive imposed on him by the federation.

FWICE had issued the directive following a complaint filed by filmmaker Farhan Akhtar regarding the actor's sudden withdrawal from the project.

However, FWICE President BN Tiwari announced on Wednesday that the organisation had decided to revoke the directive with immediate effect.

Tiwari said the decision was taken after requests from key industry bodies, including CINTAA and IMPAA.

FWICE Responds To Ranveer's Legal Notice

Ashoke Pandit confirmed that FWICE had received Ranveer Singh's legal communication.

"The legal notice reached us yesterday, and one of its primary requests was the withdrawal of the non-cooperation directive," Pandit said.

At the same time, he struck a conciliatory tone and expressed hope that discussions could help bring the matter to a close.

"We respect and celebrate Ranveer's achievements and stardom. We do not possess the authority to ban anyone. Our intention is to sit together, discuss the concerns, and arrive at a mutually acceptable solution," he said.

With the directive now withdrawn and both sides indicating a willingness to engage in dialogue, the focus has shifted towards finding a resolution that satisfies all concerned parties involved in the project.