The Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) has suspended its academic partnership with Turkey’s Inonu University citing “national security considerations.” The move comes amid escalating diplomatic tensions between India and Turkey, especially after Turkey’s open support to Pakistan during recent tensions.
In an X (formerly Twitter) post, JNU verified the suspension of its Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Turkish university, saying, “JNU stands with the nation.”
Due to National Security considerations, the MoU between JNU and Inonu University, Türkiye stands suspended until further notice.
JNU stands with the Nation. #NationFirst @rashtrapatibhvn @VPIndia @narendramodi @PMOIndia @AmitShah @DrSJaishankar @MEAIndia @EduMinOfIndia— Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) (@JNU_official_50) May 14, 2025
As per the official website of the university, the MoU had been signed on February 3, 2025, and was initially supposed to be valid until February 2, 2028.
Decision in line with broader government measures
JNU’s action coincided with the day the Indian government temporarily blocked TRT World, a Turkish news broadcaster, from posting on its X accounts for “propaganda and misinformation against India.” The government’s move is a reflection of mounting national disapproval of Turkey’s position at a time of increased tensions with Pakistan.
JNU’s action is also reflective of a wider mood in India with growing demands for boycotting Turkish goods and services.
Operation Sindoor and Turkey’s controversial role
Public anger toward Turkey has intensified since the launch of Operation Sindoor, India’s military response to the deadly Pahalgam terror attack that claimed the lives of 26 civilians. India accused Pakistan of using drones—reportedly of Turkish origin—in its retaliatory strikes. This use of military technology contributed significantly to New Delhi’s frustration.
After four days of trans-border drone and missile attacks, India and Pakistan on May 10 agreed to stop military operations. But Ankara’s clear support for Islamabad in this episode further soured its bilateral ties with India.
Economic and tourism impact
The geopolitical tensions have spilled over into the tourism and business sectors. Top travel booking companies such as MakeMyTrip and EaseMyTrip have reported a precipitous decline in bookings to Turkey and Azerbaijan, with many Indian travelers cancelling trips.
MakeMyTrip issued a public statement voicing support for India’s armed forces:
“It stands with our country and in profound respect for our military, we are likewise vigorously supportive of this stance and recommend avoidance of all unnecessary travel to Azerbaijan and Turkey. We have already stopped all promotions and deals on our site for the purpose of discouraging visits to these two countries.”
While these sites still offer flight options to Turkey and Azerbaijan, their tone is a reflection of the dominant national mood.
Future of India-Turkey relations in doubt
Suspension of JNU’s agreement and more widespread action against Turkish institutions mark a chill in diplomatic and educational relations. With India’s trade relations with Turkey also set to come under pressure, the full extent of this diplomatic gap may become clearer in the coming months.
