Jalandhar: In a bold move reflecting national solidarity, Lovely Professional University (LPU) has become the first private university in India to terminate all Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with institutions in Turkey and Azerbaijan.

The university has formally ended six academic partnerships with institutions in the two countries, citing recent geopolitical developments that it deems contrary to India’s national interest.

This unprecedented decision includes the immediate termination of student and faculty exchange programmes, joint research projects, dual degree initiatives, and all other forms of academic collaboration.

The move comes in May in response to the pro-Pakistan stance of Turkey and Azerbaijan during the recent period of heightened Indo-Pak tensions. Announcing the decision, Dr Ashok Kumar Mittal, Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha) and Founder Chancellor of LPU, stated, “When our brave armed forces are risking their lives—whether in covert operations, air defence, or patrolling our borders—we, as an institution, cannot remain indifferent.”

Dr Mittal added, “LPU’s mission has always been aligned with the growth and integrity of India, and we will never associate with any institution that undermines India’s sovereignty.”

While diplomacy is the domain of governments, LPU’s action sends a powerful message: the academic world, too, bears a moral responsibility. National security is not safeguarded solely at the borders; it must be defended in every classroom, boardroom, and international collaboration.

Earlier, Maulana Azad National Urdu University (MANUU) announced the cancellation of its MoU with Turkey’s Yunus Emre Institute. Similarly, Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) and Jamia Millia Islamia suspended all MoUs with institutions affiliated with the Turkish government.

These decisions reflect a broader deterioration in India-Turkey relations, spurred by Ankara’s strong support for Pakistan and its criticism of India’s recent counter-terror operations.