Over 1,300 students and faculty members from universities in India and abroad have written a letter to the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) in Bengaluru, asking them to cancel the upcoming “India-Israel Business Summit” scheduled for September 23. The signatories believe hosting the event would support Israel’s actions in Palestine.
In their letter to IISc Director Govindan Rangarajan, the students and faculty expressed concern about the ongoing violence in Gaza, stating, “The scale of destruction caused by Israel’s war on Gaza is alarming.” They highlighted that Israel’s military actions have resulted in significant loss of life and destruction, including the devastation of healthcare facilities and universities in Gaza.
The summit, organized by Think India, the Indian Chamber of International Business, and the Mysore Lancers Heritage Foundation, aims to foster partnerships and explore trade and innovation between India and Israel. Think India described the event as a platform for business leaders and policymakers to discuss areas of cooperation.
However, the letter criticized IISc for “sponsoring and hosting” the event, stating, “It is unconscionable for IISc to encourage collaborations between India and Israel” during such a humanitarian crisis. The signatories are particularly worried about discussions related to defense and cybersecurity.
The letter also referenced recent rulings from the International Court of Justice and resolutions from the United Nations calling for an end to Israel’s presence in Palestinian territories. It concluded by urging IISc to refrain from legitimizing what they called “genocide and colonialism.”
