Daijiworld Media Network - Pune

Pune, May 15: Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis has expressed strong support for Pune-based traders who have boycotted Turkish apples in protest against Turkiye's support for Pakistan amid the ongoing military conflict triggered by the Pahalgam terror attack.

Speaking at a municipal conference in Pune on Thursday, Fadnavis applauded the traders' "nation first" decision and assured them of full security, following reports that the group received threatening calls allegedly from Pakistan in retaliation for the boycott.

“I salute the patriotic stand of our traders,” said Fadnavis. “They need not fear these empty threats. The government will provide protection to all who have taken this stand in the interest of the nation.”

The protest began after Turkiye publicly expressed support for Pakistan following India’s Operation Sindoor, a military response to the terrorist attack in Kashmir’s Pahalgam last month, which left several civilians dead. In the wake of the operation, armed conflict has escalated along the border.

Fadnavis characterized the Pahalgam attack as a crime against humanity and praised Indian traders for taking a moral stand. “Those who support the enemies of humanity do not deserve our business. I’m proud that our business community has shown courage and clarity,” he said.

The traders have also approached the Pune police commissioner with details of the threats, and security arrangements are reportedly being reviewed.