New Delhi: In a significant move, 25 eminent Indian figures, including jurists from the Supreme Court and high courts, leading economists, activists, and cultural figures, have formally petitioned Defence Minister Rajnath Singh to terminate the licensing for arms and ammunition exports to Israel. This plea comes in the backdrop of the escalating military engagement in Gaza.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the collective, comprising individuals such as former Supreme Court judges Ruma Pal, B. Sudarshan Reddy, and S.N. Variava, has expressed deep concerns over the continuation of arms exports to Israel during its ongoing conflict with Gaza. They underscored that the actions taken by Tel Aviv have led to considerable Palestinian casualties and have been critically viewed by the international community.
The signatories have pointed out that the ongoing arms trade with Israel not only contravenes international law but also violates specific provisions of the Indian Constitution. They referenced the International Court of Justice’s findings, which accuse Israel of engaging in genocidal practices and illegal occupation. Emphasizing the gravity of the situation, the letter implores the Indian government to revoke existing licenses and to cease issuing new ones for military exports to Israel, stressing that such actions would breach India’s international and constitutional obligations.
Among the signatories are not only legal professionals but also notable public figures like author Arundhati Roy, musician T.M. Krishna, and political leader Brinda Karat, reflecting a broad spectrum of concern across various sectors of Indian society.