India-Israel Business Summit Takes Place Amidst Protests at IISc

28 Sep, 2024

India-Israel Business Summit Takes Place Amidst Protests at IISc

A protest erupted at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) against the India-Israel Business Summit 2024, highlighting tensions surrounding Israel's actions in Palestine. Demonstrators, including students and activists, gathered outside the institute, waving Palestinian flags in solidarity with victims of recent violence. The protest was met with police intervention, which included the confiscation of flags. An open letter from students and faculty urged the IISc director to cancel the summit, condemning it as a legitimization of "genocide and colonialism.

Despite the protests, the summit proceeded at the J.N. Tata Auditorium, focusing on key topics such as defense, cybersecurity, start-ups, and sustainable energy. Activists like Clifton D’Rozario voiced concerns about ethical implications, emphasizing that institutions should promote peace rather than complicity in violence. Astrophysicist Prajval Shastri questioned IISc’s role in hosting the summit amid ongoing humanitarian crises.

The All India Students’ Association (AISA) criticized the IISc administration's claim of ignorance regarding the event, labeling it a falsehood. They highlighted past instances where the administration had restricted certain discussions, asserting that IISc scrutinizes campus events closely. AISA also condemned the heavy police presence during the protest.