Due to national security concerns, Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) has halted its academic collaboration with Inonu University. The action came after the two institutions’ memorandum of understanding (MoU) was re-examined. The action was made in response to claims that Turkey was involved in the confrontation between India and Pakistan. According to defence sources, Turkey had supplied security personnel and drones to Pakistan.
In a post shared on JNU’s official X handle, the university wrote: “Due to national security considerations, the MoU between JNU and Inn University, Trkiye, stands suspended until further notice. JNU stands with the nation.”
Signed on February 3, 2025, the memorandum of understanding was supposed to last for three years, ending on February 2, 2028.
The two universities’ academic cooperation and exchange had been encouraged by the suspended Memorandum of Understanding. But lately, India has been more wary of international collaboration, particularly when it comes to matters of national interest.
As evidenced by the recently ended dispute between South Asian neighbours, Ankara’s increasing proximity to Islamabad hurt Indian interests, which in turn fuelled the ‘Boycott Turkey’ movement. Students and staff involved in the exchange program have been informed of the situation. If necessary, the institution has taken steps to guarantee that other academic arrangements will be made.
