Shimla, May 11 — All India Congress Committee (AICC) spokesperson Kuldeep Singh Rathore on Sunday called for an immediate ban on the import of apples and other goods from Turkey, urging Indian citizens to boycott tourism to the country in protest.
In a video statement issued from Shimla, Rathore criticized Turkey for its alleged support to Pakistan in recent drone incidents, despite India’s generous humanitarian aid during the 2023 earthquake under ‘Operation Dost’.
"When Turkey was struck by a catastrophic earthquake, India stood by its side with immediate assistance—sending National Disaster Response Force teams, aid, and even specially modified Kisan drones to deliver food and medicines," Rathore said. "Yet, today, Turkish-origin drones, manufactured in Tehran, have been used as part of Pakistan's hostile arsenal against India."
Calling this a betrayal, he added, "Nation comes first. Therefore, I demand a complete ban on the import of apples and other goods from Turkey."
Rathore, a former Himachal Pradesh Congress Committee president, also urged Indian travelers to refrain from visiting Turkey, emphasizing national interest over international tourism.
Supporting this stance, Harish Chauhan, president of the Fruit Vegetable Flower Growers Association, echoed similar sentiments. "Turkey is supporting Pakistan against India. We urge the Indian government to impose a permanent ban on all imports and exports from Turkey, especially apples, for the security and dignity of our nation," Chauhan stated.
Turkey remains a key exporter of apples to India, and these calls could have significant economic implications if acted upon.