Shiv Sena demands suspension of Mumbai-Turkey flights over alleged pro-Pakistan stance
Mumbai: Shiv Sena Social Media In-Charge Rahool Kanal has called on Maharashtra Governor C.P. Radhakrishnan, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde to suspend all flights from Mumbai to Istanbul, citing Turkey’s alleged support for Pakistan in matters of cross-border terrorism.
Kanal urged the state and central governments to take a strong stand, stating, "Given the gravity of the situation, I strongly believe that India should reevaluate its relationship with Turkey." He demanded that Turkey publicly clarify its position on terrorism and disassociate from Pakistan’s actions against India.
He pointed out that Mumbai, contributing 36 per cent to India’s tourism sector, plays a key role in international relations. "Indians are among the biggest spenders in Turkey. Until Turkey distances itself from Pakistan's anti-India terror support, I urge the government to suspend all Mumbai-Istanbul flights," he said.
Kanal specifically demanded that the three Turkish Airlines flights and one IndiGo flight scheduled for May 29 be cancelled. "Banning these flights would be a befitting response to Turkey's actions, demonstrating India’s commitment to national security and sovereignty," he added.
He also proposed a range of retaliatory measures, including suspending diplomatic ties, imposing economic sanctions, restricting trade and investment, raising the issue on global platforms, and banning tourism to Turkey.
Highlighting the scale of Indian tourism to Turkey, Kanal stated that over three lakh Indian tourists visited the country in 2024, accounting for nearly 30 per cent of its total tourist arrivals.
His remarks come after Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, on May 22, asserted India’s expectations from Turkey to pressurise Pakistan to end cross-border terrorism. “We expect Turkey to strongly urge Pakistan to end its support to cross-border terrorism and take credible and verifiable actions against the terror ecosystem it has harboured for decades,” Jaiswal said.
In a related development, the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security has revoked the security clearance of Turkish firm Celebi Airport Services India Pvt Ltd, citing national security concerns. The company has challenged the decision in the Delhi High Court.
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Passing out parade held at IMA Dehradun, 491 young officers join Indian Army
Dehradun(PTI): After undergoing rigorous training at the Indian Military Academy (IMA) in Dehradun, 491 cadets participated in a grand Passing Out Parade on Saturday and will now be commissioned as officers in the Indian Army.
The spectacular parade, held at the historic Drill Square in front of the academy's Chatwood Building, was reviewed by Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi, who served as the reviewing officer.
Along with 491 Indian cadets, 34 foreign cadets from 14 friendly countries also participated in the Autumn Term 2025 Passing Out Parade.
A total of 525 officer cadets from the 157th Regular Course, 46th Technical Entry Scheme, 140th Technical Graduate Course, 55th Special Commissioned Officers Course, and Territorial Army Online Entrance Exam 2023 Course participated in the Passing Out Parade.
The 'Sword of Honour' and gold medal for securing first place during training was awarded to ACA Nishkal Dwivedi, the silver medal to BUO Badal Yadav for second place, and the bronze medal to SUO Kamaljeet Singh for third place.
The silver medal for securing first place in the 'Technical Graduate Course' was awarded to Officer Cadet Jadhav Sujit Sampat, and the silver medal for first place in the 'Technical Entry Scheme-46' was awarded to WCC Abhinav Mehrotra.
The silver medal for the 'Special Commission Officer Course' was given to Officer Cadet Sunil Kumar Chhetri.
Among the foreign cadets, the first place in merit was secured by JUO Mohammad Safin Ashraf from Bangladesh. The Army Chief's Banner for overall best performance in the Autumn Term was awarded to Imphal Company.
As the parade concluded, helicopters showered flowers on the newly commissioned officers from the sky.
On this occasion, General Dwivedi congratulated the new officers in his address for successfully completing their training. He praised the young officers for their high level of discipline, leadership qualities, and endurance, and urged them to uphold the glorious traditions of the Indian Army and serve the nation with loyalty, commitment, and honour.
General Dwivedi said that joining the army marks the beginning of a lifelong duty and selfless service.
The parents and guardians of the newly commissioned officers were also present during the passing out parade.
