Mika Singh Can Now Perform in India, Thanks to His Apology

Indian singer Mika Singh, who recently faced backlash for performing in Pakistan and was also banned from working in Bollywood by All India Cine Workers Association (AICWA) and Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) has now gotten a clean chit. Owing to the forced apology that Mika had to offer after threats and public outrage, FWICE has announced to the uplift ban on Mika.

Speaking with media personals on Wednesday the singer once again extended his apology and stated the reason for his performance as ‘a commitment he made long ago’.

“This was a commitment signed long back. The timing was wrong that I went there because the decision on Article 370 has just been taken. I called the federation and told them that this was a mistake. I apologise for the mistake and I won’t repeat it again. I got a visa, so I went (to Pakistan). If you get a visa, you will go, too,” said the Moja Moja singer.

However, the press conference soon turned into a heated spat between Mika and journalists as he was questioned on accepting an invitation from Pakistan after Pulwama attack.

To journalists bitter questions, Mika responded as Do you (media) know that Neha Kakkar and (Pakistani singer) Atif Aslam performed here only two months ago? Do you know that Sonu Nigam also performed together with Atif four months ago? Why did no one say anything then?”

“When I do something, the media talks about it to grab headlines. You want me to get angry so that you can show it on your news channels and (publish it in) the newspapers,” he stated.

The press conference was also attended by the chief adviser of FWICE, Ashoke Pandit and the body’s president, B N Tiwari.

While speaking to media, Pandit announced that FWICE has lifted the ban on Mika Singh.

“We had issued the letter to ban Mika Singh but Mika wrote back to us saying he wanted to be heard. He said he regrets that the timing of the event and his visit to Pakistan was not right. We had a meeting and heard Mika’s version,” said Pandit.

Tiwari added that albeit Mika’s apology is accepted, the body will continue its ban on Pakistani artists.