Raj Thackeray-led Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) has taken strong anti-Pakistani artist stand following the ghastly Uri attacks. This has reached a new height where they threatened to beat the likes of Karan Johar and Mahesh Bhatt if they cast any Pakistani artists.

In a recent interview, Ameya Khopkar, MNS President of film wing, said, “For MNS, our country and our soldiers are important, and not the Pakistan artistes. We will beat Karan Johar and Mahesh Bhatt if they try to cast Pakistan artistes in their films.”

In the wake of Uri attacks, MNS had issued an ultimatum to all Pakistani artists to leave the country within 48 hours. They have also vehemently opposed the releases of Ae Dil hai Mushkil and Raees which feature Pakistani artists like Fawad Khan and Mahira Khan respectively in an important role.

Celebrities like Mahesh Bhatt, Karan Johar and Salman Khan who have expressed their displeasure over the ban, have received flak from MNS. Karan Johar’s office was attacked by MNS following his stand on the ban.

Pakistani artists like Rahat Fateh Ali Khan and Mawra Hocane have already lost Indian projects owing to the ongoing tension between both these countries.

Last week, the Indian Motion Picture Producers Association IMPAA passed a resolution to not employ any Pakistani artists till the tension between the two countries easy out.

Congress has reportedly slammed MNS for colouring their agenda as a national concern whereas, according to Congress it is more of a political move for the upcoming municipality elections.