In the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack and subsequent geopolitical tensions, India has initiated a series of comprehensive measures aimed at economically and culturally isolating Pakistan and its allies, notably Turkey and Azerbaijan.
These actions encompass trade restrictions, business disengagements, travel advisories, and media censorship, reflecting a multifaceted approach to national security and foreign policy.
Trade and Economic Sanctions
Comprehensive Ban on Pakistani Imports
On May 2, 2025, the Indian government issued a directive prohibiting all imports from Pakistan, including goods transiting through third countries. This move aims to eliminate indirect trade channels, which previously accounted for approximately $500 million in Pakistani goods entering India via nations like the UAE, Sri Lanka, and Singapore. The ban extends to postal services and restricts Pakistani vessels from Indian ports, signaling a stringent stance on trade relations.
Boycott of Turkish and Azerbaijani Products
The Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT), representing over 80 million traders, announced a nationwide boycott of products from Turkey and Azerbaijan. This decision follows these countries’ support for Pakistan during Operation Sindoor. The boycott affects various sectors, including the cessation of Turkish apple imports and the discontinuation of Turkish jewelry sales in cities like Lucknow.
Business and Corporate Disengagement
E-commerce Platforms Remove Pakistani and Turkish Products
Major Indian e-commerce platforms have taken steps to align with national sentiments:
Amazon, Flipkart, and Etsy: Directed by the Central Consumer Protection Authority, these platforms have removed Pakistani flags and related merchandise from their listings.
Myntra and Ajio: These fashion retailers have suspended sales of Turkish brands such as Trendyol, Koton, LC Waikiki, and Mavi, citing public sentiment and national interest.
Revocation of Celebi Aviation’s Security Clearance
India’s Bureau of Civil Aviation Security revoked the security clearance of Turkish firm Celebi Hava Servisi AS, which provided ground handling services at nine major Indian airports. The revocation, citing national security concerns, led to the termination of Celebi’s operations in cities including Delhi, Mumbai, and Ahmedabad. Celebi has challenged this decision in the Delhi High Court, arguing the government’s justification lacks specificity and threatens thousands of jobs.
Travel and Tourism Restrictions
Decline in Travel to Turkey and Azerbaijan
Following the geopolitical tensions, Indian travel to Turkey and Azerbaijan has sharply declined:
Tourist Reservations: Bookings to these countries have decreased by 60%, with cancellation rates increasing by 250% compared to previous weeks.
Travel Agencies: Companies like MakeMyTrip, Ixigo, Easy Trip Planners, and Cox & Kings have suspended promotional activities and travel services to these nations.
Airline Partnerships: Air India has reportedly approached Indian authorities to prevent IndiGo from extending its aircraft leasing agreement with Turkish Airlines, highlighting security and business concerns.
Cultural and Media Measures
Restrictions on Pakistani Media and Personalities
In response to the Pahalgam attacks, the Indian government has taken steps to curb Pakistani influence in media:
YouTube Channel Bans: India has blocked 16 Pakistani YouTube channels, including those of former cricketers Shoaib Akhtar and Basit Ali, for disseminating provocative and misleading content.
Entertainment Industry: Images of Pakistani performers have been removed from Indian film promotional materials and music platforms. Additionally, CAIT has urged production houses to cease filming in Turkey and Azerbaijan, threatening boycotts of such films.
Conclusion
India’s multifaceted approach to disengaging from Pakistan and its allies reflects a strategic alignment of economic, political, and cultural policies aimed at safeguarding national interests. These measures shed light on India’s commitment to addressing security concerns through comprehensive non-military actions, signaling a significant shift in regional dynamics and international relations.
