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Synopsis: Growing anger among Indian citizens over Turkey and Azerbaijan's support for Pakistan following India's Operation Sindoor has sparked widespread calls for the Indian government to impose travel bans on both countries. Public figures and netizens are urging authorities to take strict action to restrict travel, citing national interest.
Amid heightened geopolitical tensions following India’s Operation Sindoor, a strong wave of public sentiment is demanding a travel ban on Indian passport holders visiting Turkey and Azerbaijan. The anger stems from both countries’ perceived support for Pakistan, a stance that has not gone down well with many in India.
Prominent market expert Basant Maheshwari voiced his concerns on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), asking why the government could not restrict Indian travellers from visiting these countries. In his post, he said, “Why can't the govt stop Indian passport holders from travelling to Turkey and Azerbaijan? Otherwise, people have this Ghazni tendency of forgetting too soon.” His remarks quickly gained traction, resonating with thousands of social media users.
Many users echoed Maheshwari's sentiments, suggesting that Turkey and Azerbaijan be classified as high-risk destinations, with Level 4 travel advisories imposed. One user commented that Indian immigration should stop people from travelling to these "dangerous places" in the name of national security. Another user appealed directly to the Ministry of External Affairs, recommending an immediate travel ban similar to the one imposed on Yemen, and even suggested revoking the passports of those who disregard such directives.
Some users took the demand a step further by tagging the Prime Minister's Office and the Union Home Minister's Office, calling for a wider travel ban that includes Pakistan and Malaysia as well. One commenter provocatively suggested imposing a hefty tourism fee of Rs5 lakh on anyone travelling to Turkey or Azerbaijan, with subsequent scrutiny by agencies like the Enforcement Directorate and the Income Tax Department.
Interestingly, these calls for a boycott and travel ban come at a time when both Turkey and Azerbaijan have witnessed record growth in Indian tourism. In 2024, Turkey saw 3.3 lakh Indian tourists, marking a 20.7% increase over the previous year. Azerbaijan, meanwhile, recorded a staggering 108% jump, welcoming around 2.43 lakh Indian visitors. Turkey also reported an average tourist spend of $972 (approximately Rs82,922) per Indian visitor last year.
Despite this surge in tourism, growing public sentiment may force a change in travel patterns. Influential voices like EaseMyTrip’s co-founder Nishant Pitti have already suspended bookings to Turkey and Azerbaijan, citing national interest. Television actress Rupali Ganguly has also lent her voice to the boycott movement, urging citizens to support the Indian government and avoid travelling to countries that oppose its stance.
While the Indian government has yet to make any official announcement, the calls for action are becoming increasingly loud. The growing anger, seen through the lens of nationalism and recent security concerns, highlights how diplomacy and public emotion are becoming deeply intertwined in today's geopolitical landscape.
Disclaimer: This article reflects the current state of public discourse as of May 14, 2025. Readers are advised to follow official announcements from the Government of India and the Ministry of External Affairs for accurate travel guidance.
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