Protests in support of Palestine have erupted across various cities in India, with notable gatherings in the National Capital, Delhi, and Kolkata. These demonstrations are part of a nationwide effort to show solidarity with the Global Sumud Flotilla.
Organized by numerous people’s movements and mass organizations, protests took place in urban centers under the banner of Indian People in Solidarity with Palestine (IPSP), in alignment with the ongoing Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) campaign.
A diverse group of participants, including youth, citizens, and various progressive organizations such as the Disha Students’ Union, Naujwan Bharat Sabha, Bharatiya Biplobi Sramik Party, Stri Mukti League, and the Delhi State Anganwadi Workers and Helpers Union, joined the protests.
Demonstrations were held in several cities, including Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Pune, Chandigarh, Visakhapatnam, Vijayawada, and Kolkata, highlighting the substantial support for the Palestinian freedom movement across India.
In a joint statement, the organizations emphasized the humanitarian nature of the flotilla, which is intended to deliver food and medical supplies. They condemned the recent drone attacks on the boats, underscoring the violent and illegal tactics employed by Israel against these efforts. Past flotillas have faced similar aggression, leading to incidents of interception and imprisonment of volunteers under harsh conditions.
Vishal, speaking on behalf of the IPSP, denounced the attacks, asserting, “The unwavering commitment of those aboard the Sumud flotilla demonstrates that no imperialist alliance can dampen the unity and resolve of those who seek justice. The strength of global solidarity remains unbroken in the face of powerful imperialistic forces.”
