A petition filed by Faaiz Anwar Qureshi—a self-proclaimed cine worker and artist— stated that the presence of Pakistani artists in India during the World Cup could diminish job opportunities for Indian artists.

The petitioner specifically demanded the Bombay High Court to stop Pakistani musicians, singers, lyricists, and technicians enter India who were being called by Indian citizens and companies.

The division bench comprising Justices Sunil Shukre and Firdosh Pooniwalla categorically rejected the plea.

The court stated that such a move would be a backward step in fostering cultural harmony and unity, both within India and across its border with Pakistan.

“One must understand that in order to be a patriot, one need not be inimical to those from abroad especially, from the neighbouring country,” the court said.