India’s Universities Cut Ties with Turkey Over Support for Pakistan
India Universities Cut Ties with Turkey
Several prominent universities in India are distancing themselves from Turkey due to its support for Pakistan in the wake of recent border tensions.
JNU and Jamia Millia Islamia Announce Suspension of Collaborations
Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) in Delhi has scrapped a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Turkey’s Inonu University, citing national security concerns. JNU Vice-Chancellor Santishree Dhulipudi Pandit stated, ‘JNU stands with the nation and the armed forces, many of whom are JNU alumni.’
Jamia Millia Islamia, another top university in Delhi, has suspended all collaborations with Turkish educational institutions and establishments. Spokesperson Saima Saeed emphasized their solidarity with the government and the nation, stating, ‘Everything stands suspended until further notice.’
Other Universities Follow Suit
Delhi University is currently reviewing its international academic partnerships and plans to make a decision after careful examination. Meanwhile, Maulana Azad National Urdu University in Hyderabad has also canceled an MoU with Turkey’s Yunus Emre Institute, citing Turkey’s support for Pakistan’s ‘terrorist activities.’
Boycotts Extend Beyond Education
The fallout from Turkey’s actions extends beyond the academic sphere. Trade associations and tour operators in India have called for a boycott of Turkish products and services. Praveen Khandelwal, BJP MP and secretary general of the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT), stated that they will discuss terminating trade agreements with Turkey and Azerbaijan.
CAIT, known for its successful campaign against Chinese products, aims to replicate this success with a boycott of Turkish and Azerbaijani goods. This move could significantly impact Turkey’s tourism industry, which relies heavily on Indian tourists.
Potential Economic Impact
According to CAIT, Turkey’s total tourism revenue reached $61.1 billion in 2023, with Indian tourists contributing an estimated $291.6 million. A boycott could result in substantial financial losses for Turkey, in addition to the indirect economic impact on weddings, corporate events, and cultural programs.
