Members of Indian People in Solidarity with Palestine (IPSP) staged a flash protest outside a McDonald’s outlet in Janpath on April 3, 2026, as part of the global Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) campaign.
The protest was aimed at highlighting what the group described as the “complicity” of multinational corporations like McDonald’s and Coca-Cola in the ongoing conflict involving Palestinians.
Activists distribute pamphlets, appeal for boycott
IPSP volunteers gathered outside the outlet, raising slogans and distributing pamphlets to passers-by. They also addressed people present at the location, urging them to support the boycott campaign.
The protest comes at a time of heightened tensions in West Asia, with activists linking their campaign to broader geopolitical developments, including recent escalations involving Iran and the United States.
Allegations against global brands
One of the activists, Rauf, alleged that McDonald’s had supported Israeli forces. “We all know how McDonald’s have been distributing ‘happy meals’ to the Israeli occupation forces,” he said, accusing the company of backing actions against Palestinians.
The group also cited reports about Coca-Cola’s operations in Israel. Referring to research by WhoProfits, activists claimed that a Coca-Cola franchise operates facilities in areas linked to Israeli settlements.
Speakers raise political and human rights concerns
Another activist, Yogesh, spoke about recent developments in Israel, criticising what he described as harsh legal measures against Palestinian prisoners. He urged people to raise their voices against policies they consider unjust.
Shivam, another participant, spoke about the BDS movement and its relevance, drawing parallels between the Palestinian struggle and anti-colonial movements, including India’s freedom struggle.
‘Standing with Palestine is standing with humanity’
The IPSP said its campaign is rooted in principles of human rights and justice.
“Standing up with Palestine is standing up with humanity. This is not about religion but about the liberation struggle of an oppressed people,” the group said in a statement.
