PUNE – Demonstrators gathered outside an Adidas outlet in Pune on Sunday, calling for a boycott of the global sportswear giant over its alleged complicity in Israel’s actions in Gaza. The protest was organized by the Indian People in Solidarity with Palestine (IPSP) and the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) India movement.
Protesters accused Adidas of maintaining long-standing ties with Israeli institutions and companies. They highlighted the firm’s earlier sponsorship of the Israel Football Association, which includes clubs operating on occupied Palestinian land. Recently, Adidas also faced criticism for removing a Palestinian-origin model from its advertising campaign following pressure from pro-Israel groups.
Reports noted that Adidas retains a strong presence in Israel with stores in Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and Haifa, as well as active websites and social media channels. In 2019, Adidas sold its business in Israel to Delta Galil, a company accused of exploiting Palestinian workers and running factories on occupied territories, while continuing to license products under the Adidas brand.
During the demonstration, BDS volunteers distributed pamphlets to customers and employees and staged a short street play depicting the Palestinian struggle for freedom. Pune coordinator Swapnaja emphasized that the Gaza issue should not be viewed as a religious conflict but as a fight for liberation. Drawing parallels with India’s own history under colonial rule, she urged Indians to stand in solidarity with Palestinians.
Placards and artworks displayed slogans such as “Free Palestine” and “Stop Genocide.” Protesters also demanded that the Indian government cut military and political ties with Israel and boycott companies operating in the country.
