Industrialist Harsh Goenka has called on Indian citizens to refrain from travelling to Turkey and Azerbaijan, citing their support for Pakistan following the recent Pahalgam attack in Kashmir on April 22nd.
Harsh Goenka calls for boycott
The RPG Group Chairperson took to X to express his views, stating, “Indians gave Rs 4,000+cr to Turkey and Azerbaijan last year through tourism. Created jobs. Boosted their economy, hotels, weddings, and flights. Today, both stand with Pakistan after the Pahalgam attack. Plenty of beautiful places in India and the world. Please skip these 2 places. Jai Hind.” Goenka did not specify the source of the Rs 4,000 crore figure.
Goenka’s statement follows reports of several Indian travel companies suspending bookings to the two countries. The travel industry anticipates a significant decline, with estimates suggesting a 50 per cent drop in bookings from India to Azerbaijan and Turkey. Many travellers have reportedly cancelled existing plans, opting for alternative destinations like Bali and Malaysia. Some Indian travel websites, such as Ixigo and EaseMyTrip, have also indicated they will not book flights on Turkish Airlines or offer accommodations to citizens of Turkey and Azerbaijan.
The controversy stems from official statements made by Turkey and Azerbaijan regarding the recent events.
Statements by Turkey and Azerbaijan
On May 7th, the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated, “The attack carried out by India last night (May 6) raises the risk of an all-out war. We condemn such provocative steps as well as attacks targeting civilians and civilian infrastructure.”
Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs also condemned India’s actions, stating, “The Republic of Azerbaijan expresses its concern over the further escalation of tension between the Republic of India and the Islamic Republic of Pakistan. We condemn military attacks against the Islamic Republic of Pakistan that killed and injured several civilians. Being in solidarity with the people of Pakistan, we express condolences to the families of the innocent victims and wish a speedy recovery to those who were injured. We call on all parties to exercise restraint and to resolve the conflict through diplomatic means.”