Shiv Sena Targets Turkish Firm Over Pakistan Ties
Shiv Sena demands removal of a Turkish ground services firm from Mumbai Airport, citing Turkey’s support for Pakistan.
Shiv Sena Targets Turkish Firm Over Pakistan Ties at Mumbai Airport
In a bold display of economic nationalism, leaders of Shiv Sena took their protest to the gates of Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport on Monday, calling for the termination of a Turkish company contracted for ground services. The move reflects growing discontent with Turkey’s diplomatic stance favoring Pakistan and marks another instance where global geopolitics collide with local Indian politics.
Why Shiv Sena Is Taking a Stand
Shiv Sena leader Murji Patel didn’t mince words. Addressing the media, he accused Turkey of profiting off Indian contracts while publicly aligning with Pakistan—India’s long-standing rival.
“Turkey supports Pakistan. How can we allow them to do business here?” Patel asked rhetorically, tapping into nationalist sentiments that have long been a cornerstone of Shiv Sena’s political identity.
The protest, while centered on a specific contract, underscores the broader unease with foreign entities perceived to be allied with India’s adversaries. Patel confirmed that the party had already informed the Mumbai Police Commissioner and intends to pressure authorities until Turkish firms are barred from working anywhere in Maharashtra.
Airport Ground Services and Global Backlash
Though the specific Turkish company was not named during the protest, it is believed to handle critical ground operations at the high-traffic Mumbai Airport. Turkish ground-handling firms, such as Celebi Aviation, have been active in India’s aviation sector, offering globally competitive services. But in today’s climate, strategic alignment is proving as important as operational efficiency.
India’s tightening of foreign contracts in response to geopolitical tensions isn’t new. Following clashes with China, Indian authorities banned dozens of Chinese apps and restricted investment from neighboring countries. The current backlash against Turkish firms appears to be riding a similar wave.
Turkey’s Vocal Support for Pakistan: A Growing Irritant
At the heart of the controversy is Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s repeated advocacy for Pakistan on international platforms, especially on the contentious Kashmir issue. Erdoğan’s calls for global attention on Kashmir have been sharply criticized by Indian diplomats, and now, regional political forces like Shiv Sena are pushing back.
Such diplomatic divergences are increasingly driving domestic policy shifts. For many in India, Turkey’s positioning on Kashmir is not just rhetoric—it’s a political affront that justifies economic consequences.
A Domestic Political Strategy With International Implications
For Shiv Sena, the protest serves dual purposes: reaffirming its nationalist platform and applying pressure on authorities to reconsider the implications of foreign corporate ties. The party’s call to remove all Turkish companies from Maharashtra is both a political message and a potential precedent.
“We won’t allow Turkish firms to operate here anymore,” Patel declared, as supporters echoed the sentiment. This hard stance may resonate with a section of voters who prioritize national interest over international commerce.
Yet, the broader impact remains uncertain. Experts caution that canceling contracts on geopolitical grounds could spark legal battles or disrupt vital airport operations. International business agreements often come with protective clauses, and unilateral cancellations may lead to diplomatic and financial consequences.
What Happens Next?
The Airports Authority of India and central government have yet to issue an official response. However, this protest may force stakeholders to reevaluate how foreign affiliations affect public contracts—particularly in sensitive sectors like aviation.
Whether this turns into a full-fledged policy shift or remains a symbolic protest will depend on the central government’s stance. In the meantime, Shiv Sena has drawn a clear line: business interests, they argue, should not override national allegiance.
Conclusion: When Patriotism Meets Procurement
Shiv Sena’s protest highlights a new reality in Indian politics—where procurement decisions are no longer immune from foreign policy considerations. As India’s global profile rises and tensions with key nations persist, expect more scrutiny over who profits from doing business on Indian soil.
Ultimately, this episode reveals the growing influence of international diplomacy on local politics, blurring the lines between business and borders. For voters and policymakers alike, it raises a pressing question: should geopolitical loyalty be a factor in who gets to operate in India?
Disclaimer:
This article is based on public statements and reported events. It aims to provide an objective account of the political developments without endorsing any political position or party.
source : The Economic Times