IIT Mumbai Suspends Agreements with Turkish Universities Amid Rising Tensions

In response to escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, IIT Mumbai has suspended all agreements with Turkish universities. This decision follows Turkey's support for Pakistan during recent conflicts. The institute's announcement highlights the impact of geopolitical dynamics on academic collaborations. IIT Roorkee has also canceled its agreement with a Turkish university, emphasizing the importance of aligning academic partnerships with national interests. As institutions reassess their international collaborations, the situation reflects broader implications for educational ties amid political strife. Read on to discover more about the ramifications of these decisions and the responses from other educational institutions.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 18, 2025, 11:59 IST

IIT Mumbai Takes Action Against Turkish Collaborations

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mumbai has decided to suspend all agreements with universities in Turkey. This decision comes in light of the increasing tensions between India and Pakistan, particularly following Turkey's support for Pakistan.

The institute announced on the social media platform 'X', stating, "Considering the current geopolitical situation regarding Turkey, IIT Mumbai is in the process of suspending its agreements with Turkish universities until further notice."

There was a faculty exchange program agreement between IIT Mumbai and several Turkish institutions. This development follows Turkey's backing of Pakistan during Operation Sindoor.

Previously, IIT Roorkee had formally canceled its agreement with Inonu University in Turkey. IIT Roorkee mentioned on 'X', "The institute is committed to promoting global collaboration that reflects its academic priorities while safeguarding national interests." Additionally, private institutions like Chandigarh University have also terminated their academic collaborations with 23 universities in Turkey and Azerbaijan.