Pro-Palestine Protest in Pune Sparks Outrage Amid Questions of National Loyalty
‘Indian People in Solidarity with Palestine’ Protest Outside Domino’s in Pune Triggers Public Backlash
Protest in Pune by ‘Indian People in Solidarity with Palestine’ Sparks National Controversy
Pune, Maharashtra – May 12, 2025:
A group identifying itself as Indian People in Solidarity with Palestine held a demonstration on Saturday outside a Domino’s outlet in Pune, calling on citizens to boycott the American food chain in protest of Israel’s actions in Gaza. The protest, however, stirred a storm of controversy, with many questioning the group’s priorities and loyalties in the midst of heightened tensions with Pakistan.
Rising Questions: Where Was This Solidarity Before?
The protest has triggered sharp reactions from several quarters, especially on social media. Many users and citizens have questioned the intent behind the protest, especially in the wake of recent hostilities in Kashmir, particularly the massacre in Pahalgam where several Indian civilians and soldiers lost their lives.
“Where were these people when innocent lives were lost in Pahalgam?” asked one online commentator.
The contrast between their vocal support for Palestine and apparent silence on domestic tragedies has left many Indians bewildered.
Palestine Over Patriotism?
The protest came at a time when India continues to face threats along its borders, particularly with Pakistan. Critics argue that public displays of support for Palestine—while India battles extremist elements allegedly supported by Pakistan—appear to some as a sign of misplaced empathy or worse, indirect support for a hostile state.
“Why love Palestine while our army is fighting Pakistan?” questioned another angry voice online.
Call for Stronger Laws Against Anti-National Activities
The protest reignited public demands for the Indian government to re-evaluate its stance on anti-national behavior. Many are calling for a revamp of colonial-era laws to include stricter penalties for actions perceived to threaten national integrity.
“India must bring in a new set of strong laws to deal with anti-national elements. We can’t keep dragging British-era legislation in a modern threat landscape,” stated a local citizen from Pune.
Pune Locals Push Back
Locals in Pune reportedly reacted strongly to the protest. Eyewitnesses say several people confronted the demonstrators and accused them of undermining India’s interest by siding with external entities during a time of internal and border conflict.
Social media videos and photos showed a clear rejection of the protest by many Pune citizens who chanted pro-India slogans and urged unity during times of conflict.
Tensions Rise in the Face of Divided Loyalties
As the geopolitical climate grows increasingly tense, the line between solidarity and sedition continues to blur for many. The protest in Pune, far from simply a political expression, has become a flashpoint in the broader debate over what it means to support one’s country during wartime.
Whether viewed as free speech or as a threat to national unity, one thing is clear: India is facing not just external threats, but deep ideological divisions within.
Police have taken serious note of the incident and have initiated a thorough investigation, questioning individuals involved in the protest and poster distribution. Officials are working to uncover the motive behind the actions and are examining whether any organized groups or external entities played a role. Law enforcement authorities have emphasized that any attempts to incite communal disharmony or disrupt public order will be met with strict legal consequences.
