Chandigarh University Follows Suit: Cuts Ties with Turkish and Azerbaijan Unis After LPU, JNU and Jamia

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): In response to Turkey's support for Pakistan after Operation Sindoor, several Indian universities have severed academic ties with Turkish educational institutions. Sharda University and Chandigarh University have recently cancelled their Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with Turkish universities. Recently LPU , JNU and Jamia had announced termination of their MOUs with Turkish and Azerbaijan Universities.

Sharda University's Decision

Sharda University has terminated its academic MoU with Istanbul Aydin University and Hasan Kalyoncu University, citing national interests as the reason. The university had previously facilitated student-teacher exchange programs, joint research, and cultural cooperation with these institutions.

 Chandigarh University's Move

Chandigarh University has cut ties with 23 universities in Turkey and Azerbaijan, following a nationwide boycott campaign against Turkey. This decision is seen as a response to Turkey's stance on Operation Sindoor and its support for Pakistan.

Wider Boycott Campaign

The boycott movement against Turkey has gained momentum across India, with trade organizations, tourism bodies, and social forums joining in. The Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) has called for an end to all trade ties with Turkey and Azerbaijan, with over 125 business leaders supporting the boycott.

Potential Impact

Experts believe that this boycott campaign will affect India's $2.84 billion trade with Turkey. The decision of Indian universities to sever ties with Turkish institutions may have significant implications for India-Turkey relations.

LPU's founding Chancellor Dr Ashok Mittal had commented on the move saying that when our brave armed forces are risking their lives to protect the country, be it covert operations, air security or patrolling the borders, we as a university cannot remain silent. Chandigarh University's decision is also believed to be inspired by the same sentiment.