Following America's provision of powerful medium-range missiles to Turkey, a surge of anger against Washington is evident in India.
Anger towards Turkey and Azerbaijan has intensified in India following their overt support for Pakistan during Operation Sindur. The use of Turkish drones has fueled calls for a boycott in India, leading to a significant drop in travel bookings to both countries.
Several major organizations, including the trade body CAT, are urging a halt to travel to these nations. According to an Economic Times report, MakeMyTrip bookings have plummeted by up to 60%, while ticket prices have increased by over ₹250 in a week. Cleartrip has also reported a more than 260% increase in cancellation rates for these destinations.
Growing Opposition Against America
The provision of dangerous medium-range missiles to Turkey has further fueled Indian resentment towards Washington. Prominent investor Shankar Sharma has called for a boycott of travel to America, mirroring calls to boycott Turkey and Azerbaijan. He posted on X (formerly Twitter) that travel agencies like MakeMyTrip and EaseMyTrip should immediately halt bookings to the US. Sharma stated he could not travel to a country that openly supports an enemy's ally.
Turkey's Support for Pakistan in Operation Sindur
On April 22nd, an attack on tourists in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, resulted in 26 deaths, all of whom were non-residents. Central agency investigations revealed Pakistan's involvement. Subsequently, on May 7th, India launched Operation Sindur, destroying nine terrorist bases in Pakistan-administered territory. This marked the first time since 1971 that all three wings of the Indian armed forces simultaneously attacked Pakistan.
Pakistan utilized Turkish-made drones and Chinese missiles. Following Trump's announcement of supplying medium-range missiles to Turkey, protests and calls for boycotts against Turkey, Azerbaijan, and the United States have intensified in India.
