BOYCOTT TURKEY: In the aftermath of India’s decisive Operation Sindoor, aimed at dismantling terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK), the global response has been telling. While many nations acknowledged India’s right to self-defense, two countries—Turkey and Azerbaijan—chose to side with our adversary, Pakistan.
BOYCOTT TURKEY
Turkey’s Overt Support to Pakistan
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s recent actions have raised eyebrows in India. Following Operation Sindoor, Erdoğan expressed solidarity with Pakistan, commending its “calm and restrained policies” amid escalating tensions with India. He also supported Islamabad’s call for an investigation into the April 22 militant attack in Indian Kashmir, which claimed 26 lives—a move perceived as undermining India’s stance .
This isn’t an isolated incident. Reports suggest that Turkey has been providing military assistance to Pakistan, including training for Pakistan’s Dolphin Police unit, as part of a broader strategy to revive Caliphate-era cultural ties . Such actions indicate a deepening alliance that poses strategic concerns for India.
Azerbaijan’s Alignment with Pakistan
Azerbaijan, too, has openly supported Pakistan. In response to India’s counter-terror operations, Azerbaijan’s Foreign Ministry condemned the military strikes and expressed solidarity with Pakistan . This stance is particularly disheartening given the burgeoning tourism and economic ties between India and Azerbaijan in recent years.
Economic Implications of the Boycott
India’s response has been swift and impactful. Travel companies like EaseMyTrip and Travomint have suspended bookings to Turkey and Azerbaijan, citing the geopolitical climate . The Indian travel industry, recognizing the sentiments of the populace, has urged citizens to avoid non-essential travel to these nations.
The economic ramifications for Turkey and Azerbaijan are significant. Indian tourists are among the top contributors to global tourism. In 2024, approximately 3.3 lakh Indians visited Turkey, marking a 20.7% increase from the previous year. Azerbaijan saw a 108% rise in Indian tourists, with 2.43 lakh visitors in the same period . The boycott threatens to dent these numbers substantially.
Public Sentiment and Social Media Outrage
Social media platforms have been abuzz with calls to boycott Turkey and Azerbaijan. Hashtags like #BoycottTurkeyAzerbaijan have trended, reflecting the collective anger of Indian netizens . The sentiment is clear: nations that support adversaries of India should not benefit from Indian tourism and trade.
A Call for Strategic Reciprocity
India’s restraint and commitment to peace have often been met with duplicity by nations that profess friendship but act otherwise. The support extended by Turkey and Azerbaijan to Pakistan, especially in the wake of terrorist attacks on Indian soil, is a betrayal of diplomatic norms and mutual respect.
It’s imperative for India to reassess its diplomatic and economic engagements with countries that do not stand by us in times of crisis. The boycott is not just a reaction; it’s a statement—a declaration that India’s sovereignty and the safety of its citizens are non-negotiable.
Show Your Patriotism
Every Indian must remember that patriotism is not just about waving the tricolour on Independence Day or celebrating victories in cricket. True patriotism is standing by your nation in global matters — especially when another country openly supports your enemy. Turkey and Azerbaijan have repeatedly voiced support for Pakistan, a nation that continues to sponsor terrorism in India and fuels unrest in Kashmir.
In such times, continuing to pour our money into their tourism industries or products only strengthens them financially, while weakening our national stand. It’s time we, the citizens of India, show our solidarity not just in words but in actions. A conscious decision to boycott Turkey and Azerbaijan is not about hate — it’s about self-respect, awareness, and putting India first.
Thousands of Indian tourists travel to these countries every year. Imagine the economic message we send when we choose not to. Instead, explore the rich diversity and beauty of Bharat — from the Himalayas to Kerala, from Kutch to the Northeast.
👉 Your choice matters. Your rupee is powerful.
Say no to countries who stand against India. Say yes to patriotism.
#BoycottTurkey #BoycottAzerbaijan #IndiaFirst