Rising Anti-Türkiye Sentiment in India Amid Kashmir Tensions Fuels Backlash Against Turkish Businesses
New Delhi – A wave of anti-Türkiye sentiment is sweeping across India, fueled by renewed tensions with Pakistan and unverified claims regarding Türkiye’s alleged support for Islamabad. This surge in negative public opinion has led to calls for boycotts of Turkish businesses operating within India, putting a strain on previously established economic ties. The catalyst for this escalating situation was a deadly militant attack in Indian-administered Kashmir on April 22, 2025, which claimed the lives of 26 civilians. India swiftly implemented retaliatory measures against Pakistan, including visa suspensions, diplomatic expulsions, and border closures, attributing the attack to Pakistan-based militant groups. Pakistan, however, vehemently denies these accusations.
The situation has been further complicated by disinformation circulating within Indian media and online platforms, alleging that Türkiye supplied weapons to Pakistan. False reports claimed that six Turkish military transport aircraft landed in Pakistan carrying defense systems, including anti-tank missiles and munitions for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The Turkish Ministry of Defence promptly refuted these claims, clarifying that a cargo plane merely made a refueling stop in Pakistan before continuing its designated route. Despite Türkiye’s official denial and calls for restraint and adherence to international law, the unsubstantiated allegations have significantly fueled anti-Turkish sentiment in India.
This escalating tension has placed Turkish businesses operating in India under intense public scrutiny. The codeshare partnership between Turkish Airlines and IndiGo, India’s largest airline, has become a focal point of the backlash. Critics argue that this partnership disproportionately benefits Turkish Airlines due to its extensive international network, allowing it to capture a larger market share. Furthermore, commentators have accused Türkiye of a double standard, alleging that while Türkiye refuses to sell armed drones to India, it supplies them to Pakistan and Bangladesh.
Beyond Turkish Airlines, other major Turkish companies with significant presence in India have also found themselves caught in the crossfire. These include Koc Holding, a prominent industrial conglomerate with a joint venture for home appliances with India’s Tata Group; Celebi Holding, operating in aviation and ground handling services; Dogus Group, involved in infrastructure and construction projects; and Limak Holding, engaged in engineering and contracting across South Asia. The growing nationalist pressure is compelling a reassessment of these established economic ties, as critics contend that Türkiye’s perceived alignment with Pakistan contradicts Indian national interests. While the Indian government has not implemented any official bans on Turkish companies, the surge in negative public sentiment presents a challenging environment for their continued operations.
Amidst this escalating tension, Türkiye has maintained its call for restraint and peaceful dialogue. The Turkish Ministry of Defence reiterated its understanding of Pakistan’s security concerns, while urging all parties to refrain from provocative actions and prioritize adherence to international law. Türkiye has emphasized its commitment to regional peace and stability, urging the international community to play a constructive role in facilitating de-escalation between India and Pakistan. Turkish officials have expressed deep concern about the escalating verbal and military tensions between the two countries, emphasizing the potential for destabilizing consequences that extend beyond the region.
The rise in anti-Türkiye sentiment within India underscores the complex interplay of geopolitical tensions, economic interests, and the rapid spread of disinformation in the digital age. Whether this surge in negative public opinion translates into concrete policy changes and a significant impact on Turkish businesses operating in India remains to be seen. However, it is clear that the current environment presents significant challenges for maintaining and fostering economic ties between the two countries. The imperative for clear communication, diplomatic engagement, and a commitment to verifiable information is critical to navigate this turbulent period and prevent further escalation. The international community plays a key role in facilitating de-escalation and encouraging constructive dialogue between India and Pakistan, promoting regional stability and preventing further consequences arising from the Kashmir dispute.