JNU suspends MoU with Turkey's Inonu University citing 'national security' concerns

Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) has officially suspended its Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Turkey’s Inonu University, citing national security considerations. The MoU, signed on February 3, 2025, was intended to last for three years and promote academic collaboration between the two institutions. This included provisions for faculty and student exchanges, joint research, and academic programs. However, in light of recent geopolitical developments, JNU decided to suspend the agreement until further notice.

The suspension of the MoU comes amid escalating tensions between India and Turkey. The diplomatic fallout followed Turkey’s vocal support for Pakistan during India’s Operation Sindoor, which targeted terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Turkey’s alignment with Pakistan has led to growing discontent in India, particularly among political and business circles, who have called for reducing ties with Turkey.

JNU’s decision aligns with the broader sentiment in India, which has seen a rise in calls to boycott Turkish goods and services. This backlash is particularly significant in the travel and tourism sector, with several Indian travel agencies reporting a drop in bookings to Turkey and Azerbaijan. The growing boycott movement stems from the belief that Turkey’s stance on regional issues undermines India’s security interests.

The MoU between JNU and Inonu University was part of India’s broader effort to build international academic partnerships. However, the recent suspension highlights how national security concerns can now influence decisions about international academic cooperation. The suspension also reflects the government’s increasing role in shaping the foreign policy framework of Indian institutions, particularly in the context of heightened national security issues.

The suspension of the JNU-Inonu University MoU has put academic collaborations between India and Turkey on hold. It remains unclear whether this decision will extend to other academic partnerships with Turkey or other countries with whom India has political disagreements. With tensions still high, this move could influence future academic ties and collaborations, particularly in the areas of research and student exchange programs.