#BoycottKFC Trends For Its Tweet On Kashmir, KFC Apologies

The fast-food behemoth, KFC is facing the ire of Indian Twitter users after the brand’s Pakistan handle uploaded a post on Facebook depicting ‘solidarity’ with Kashmir. The post from Feb 5, has now been deleted. But Twitter users managed to surface the screenshot of it. Last year’s tweet has also grabbed attention now.

Expressing displeasure on tweets, #BoycottKFC started trending online with several Twitter users sharing a year-old tweet from the fast-food chain’s Pakistan unit, observed as ‘Kashmir Solidarity Day’ (A day to show support to the Kashmiri separatists in India). Last year’s tweet by KFC Pakistan on Kashmir Day came with a message, “We stand together this Kashmir Solidarity Day, to realize their right to freedom.” There was also an attached picture on mountains with the words, “Their cravings for freedom are heartfelt”, with Kashmir written.

This year’s tweet says, “You never left our thoughts and we hope that the coming years bring peace to you.” Below is a picture with the words “Kashmir belongs to the Kashmiris.” Indian users demanded an apology from the company, leaving the American fast-food giant embroiled in controversy. A Twitter user wrote that international companies should understand that Pakistan is using them, their investment and their brands as tools against India’s Kashmir.

Following an online uproar, KFC India issued an apology on Monday evening. “We deeply apologize for a post that was published on some KFC social media channels outside the country. We honour and respect India, and remain steadfast in our commitment to serving all Indians with pride,” read a statement issued by the company. Meanwhile, a similar incident was faced by South Korea’s Hyundai Motor a couple of days ago after a tweet from the account of its Pakistan partner expressed solidarity for separatists in Kashmir.