How Pak Hyundai dealer's 'Kashmir freedom' tweet led to 'boycott' trend in India

Car manufacturer Hyundai is facing a barrage of criticism after its dealers in Pakistan reportedly shared an objectionable tweet regarding Kashmir.

On February 5, an unverified handle named Hyundai Pakistan reportedly tweeted, "Let us remember the sacrifices of our Kashmiri brothers and stand in support as they continue to struggle for freedom." An image posted alongside carried the text KASHMIR covered in barbed wire.

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February 5 is observed as 'Kashmir Solidarity Day' in Pakistan.

Social media users in India strongly objected to the post, and the hashtag Boycott Hyundai soon started trending. Some accused the Korean company of supporting "terror state Pakistan's propaganda on Kashmir." Others appealed to Indians to "rethink" buying Hyundai cars. Some also pointed out the huge gap between Hyundai's sales in India and in Pakistan, calling the Kashmir post "stupid".

The automobile manufacturer's Indian unit tried some damage control by claiming to "stand firmly" for their "strong ethos of respecting nationalism". The statement explained, "The unsolicited social media post linking Hyundai Motor India is offending our unparalleled commitment and service to this great country. India is second home to the Hyundai brand and we have zero tolerance policy towards insensitive communication and we strongly condemn any such view."

The posts by the Pakistani handle linked to the company were also deleted.

However, the statement was called "half-hearted" by BJP leader Vijay Chauthaiwale. Shiv Sena leader Priyanka Chaturvedi accused the company of using "wishy-washy" words instead of apologising.

Hyundai is reportedly the second-largest carmaker in India after Maruti Suzuki. In January 22, the company sold over 44,000 units in India, and in 2021, its sales were over 5 lakhs, as per reports.