By: Dr. Avi Verma

In recent days, Indian communities around the world have risen in outrage over credible reports that Turkey has actively aided Pakistan in its confrontation with India—most notably through the supply of armed drones and military advisors allegedly employed against Indian forces during “Operation Sindoor.” In response, a powerful, global movement has emerged, calling for a boycott of Turkish Airlines and all travel to Turkey.

As Publisher of IndoUS Tribune, I stand firmly with this call. Our shared values of sovereignty, justice, and human dignity demand that we hold accountable any nation that undermines peace or facilitates aggression against India.

Global chorus for a boycott

• United States & Canada: Community organizations in New York, Chicago, Toronto, and Vancouver issued joint statements urging Indian expats to cancel planned trips and redirect tourism dollars. The Indian American Impact Forum (IAIF) and the Canadian Bhatia Cultural Society have both called for immediate suspension of Turkish Airlines bookings.
• United Kingdom: The British Indian Association and the UK’s Federation of Indian Associations endorsed #BoycottTurkeyUK, coordinating with travel agencies in London and Birmingham to halt tours.
• Australia & New Zealand: The Australia-India Business Council and the New Zealand Indian Cultural Association released advisories warning members against flying Turkish Airlines and visiting Turkey until Ankara clarifies its stance.
• Middle East & Gulf: Indian community leagues in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Doha have joined the boycott, posting supportive messages on social media and informing local travel partners of the shift in public sentiment.

Across all regions, #BoycottTurkey and #NoTurkiyeVacay have trended alongside #StandWithIndia—amassing millions of impressions and driving a surge in cancellation requests.

The stakes for tourism and diplomacy

Each year, over 300,000 Indian visitors travel to Turkey, contributing nearly 9% of that nation’s tourism revenue. Major travel platforms—MakeMyTrip, EaseMyTrip, Cox & Kings—have already responded to public sentiment by pausing new bookings and reporting 200–250% spikes in cancellations. The Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) is urging its members to consider broader trade suspensions, warning that Indian tourists spent around $292 million in Turkey last year.

A legacy of friendship, now at risk

India and Turkey have a history of mutual support. In the aftermath of Turkey’s devastating 2023 earthquake, India dispatched relief teams under Operation Dost, delivering medical aid, rescue specialists, and emergency supplies. That spirit of friendship makes today’s allegations all the more painful—and underscores the principle that true alliances require reciprocity and respect.

Geopolitics meets the marketplace

This boycott transcends tourism; it is a peaceful, democratic exercise of economic power. It reflects a broader truth: in our interconnected world, foreign policy is shaped not only by governments but also by the choices of everyday citizens. By choosing alternative carriers and destinations, Indian travelers affirm their national pride and reinforce the expectation that sovereign nations respect India’s security and territorial integrity.

How you can help

1. Rebook your travel with carriers other than Turkish Airlines until Ankara clarifies its policies.
2. Explore alternative destinations that welcome Indian guests and honor our shared values.
3. Amplify the message by using #BoycottTurkey, #NoTurkiyeVacay, and #StandWithIndia on social media.
4. Support businesses and tour operators who have taken principled stands in solidarity.

Our collective voice matters

A boycott is not an act of hatred but a powerful form of nonviolent protest. It channels the one resource that cannot be silenced: the economic choices of a global community united behind a just cause. IndoUS Tribune applauds this groundswell of solidarity and urges our readers—whether in India, North America, Europe, Australia, or the Gulf—to stand firm in defense of our nation’s honor.

History shows that when communities unite behind principle, governments take notice. Let us ensure that our united message resonates in Ankara and across the globe: support for aggression has consequences, and the world’s marketplaces will reflect the strength of our convictions.