In light of escalating geopolitical tensions involving Turkey, the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT-B) is taking steps to suspend its Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with Turkish universities. This decision reflects a growing trend among Indian institutions to reassess their collaborations with Turkish counterparts, prioritizing national interests and security considerations.
IIT-B's move follows similar actions by other prominent Indian institutions. IIT Roorkee recently terminated its MoU with Istanbul Technical University, citing concerns about the strategic implications of maintaining such collaborations amidst the current geopolitical climate. Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) and Jamia Millia Islamia have also withdrawn from their academic partnerships with Turkish institutions, signaling a broader policy shift within the Indian academic community.
According to a statement released by the Powai institute, IIT Bombay is "processing suspension of its agreements with Turkish universities until further notice" due to the "current geopolitical situation involving Turkey." The institute has advised students and faculty members involved in exchange programs or research initiatives with Turkish institutions to await official notifications regarding the implications of this decision.
This wave of disengagement stems from increasing concerns over Turkey's perceived support for Pakistan and its condemnation of India's actions, specifically referring to strikes on terror camps in the neighboring country and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) under Operation Sindoor. Reports indicate that Turkish drones were also extensively used by Pakistan during the recent military conflict with India, further exacerbating tensions.
The Association of Indian Universities (AIU) has also weighed in on the matter, urging over 1,100 universities to review their partnerships with institutions in Pakistan, Turkey, and Bangladesh. This appeal follows a recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam and accusations that these countries are supporting anti-India narratives. AIU President Vinay Kumar Pathak has called for academic institutions to demonstrate national solidarity in their international engagements.
Beyond the academic sphere, other sectors are also taking similar measures. The All India Gem and Jewellery Domestic Council (GJC) has urged its members to suspend all business transactions with Turkey and Azerbaijan. Additionally, the Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL) has discontinued the ground-handling services of Turkish company Celebi Airport Services India Private Limited, following directives from the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) related to national security concerns. The aviation watchdog, BCAS, has also revoked the security clearance for Celebi Airport Services India Private Limited, citing the "interest of national security."
These collective actions underscore a growing sentiment within India to prioritize national security and strategic interests when engaging in international collaborations. While academic and economic partnerships are valuable, the current geopolitical landscape has prompted a reassessment of these relationships, particularly with countries perceived to be acting against India's interests. It remains to be seen how long these suspensions will last and what the long-term impact will be on academic and economic relations between India and Turkey.
