Post 26/11 terror attack in Mumbai, the Shiv Sena and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena had asked all Pakistani artistes working in India to flee the country. However, Pakistani comedian Shakeel Siddique refused to toe the line and arrived in India only to receive his marching order from MNS activists today.

Shakeel

Shakeel is here to finish his commitments with Sony for their show Comedy Circus – Chinchpokli to China. While it’s not clear when he arrived, the Pakistani artiste was present at Mohan studios in Andheri today. After learning about this, activists of Maharasthra Navnirman Cine Workers association, led by their president Amey Khopkar barged into the sets today and demanded Shakeel to flee the country at the earliest.

Confirming the news, Maharasthra Navnirman Cine Workers association president Amey Khopkar says, “We were tipped about Shakeel’s presence early this morning. We arrived at Mohan Studios at around 3.00 pm and then we ordered Shakeel to flee our country. There wasn’t any man handling but it was important to send a stern warning to Shakeel and other Pakistani artistes. “

Adding further, Amey says, “We respect all artistes but after the Mumbai terror attack, there’s no place for any Pakistani in Maharashtra. How can we allow a Pakistani to come to our land and crack jokes after their men killed innocent Indians?”

An eye witness recalls, “There was no violence but MNS men severely reprimanded Shakeel, who was really petrified. He was cornered by some 10-12 men and they gave him a mouthful. The activists wanted Shakeel to leave India immediately but they were pacified by a production personnel, who explained to them that the actor will take the first available flight.”

So why is it that during such turbulent times did one take the risk of inviting a Pakistani to India? Unfortunately noone concerned was avaliable to answer this pertinent question.

Despite repeated attempts, officials from Sony and the production house (Optimystix) remained unavailable for comment. Shakeel could not be contacted.