After JNU and Jamia, IIT-Roorkee cancels MoU with Turkish University citing ‘national interest’

The institute further noted that while it remains committed to fostering global research collaborations, such partnerships must support India’s broader objectives in research and innovation. The cancellation is part of a wider trend among Indian institutions reassessing international academic ties amid growing national security concerns.

Moreover, Lovely Professional University (LPU) has also terminated all its Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with institutions in Türkiye and Azerbaijan. The Punjab-based private varsity has formally ended six academic collaborations, citing recent geopolitical developments that it considers to be against India’s national interest.

The development follows similar decisions taken by other prominent Indian universities. Earlier this week, Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) suspended its MoU with Inonu University, citing national security considerations. The MoU, signed in February for a three-year period, was intended to promote cultural research and student exchange.

In a post on X, JNU stated that the agreement was suspended “until further notice” due to security concerns, adding that the university “stands with the Nation.”

Following JNU’s move, Jamia Millia Islamia also announced the suspension of all academic partnerships with Turkish government-affiliated institutions. These decisions mark a coordinated shift in Indian higher education institutions’ approach to international partnerships, particularly with entities linked to Turkey.

All three universities have reiterated their commitment to national priorities while continuing to explore collaborative academic opportunities globally that align with India’s strategic and educational interests.