11 global firms that fell for Pakistan’s Kashmir propaganda

As many as 11 multinational companies seemed to be played into the hands of Pakistan's propaganda warfare on Kashmir issues since last year. Every year on February 5, Pakistan celebrates Kashmir Solidarity Day to extend support to terrorists and separatists. This year, the Kashmiris have categorically rejected the Pakistan’s fake propaganda. 

KFC

US-based quick-service restaurant chain KFC also became part of the fake propaganda initiated in Pakistan against India.  After netizens trolled the company on the internet, the company apologized for the social media post. 

In a Twitter post, KFC India said, "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."

KFC ventured into the Indian food market in 1995 with its first store in Bengaluru. Currently, it has more than 450 stores throughout the country. 

Bosch Pharmaceuticals

"We stand united with our brothers and salute them on this Kashmir day. #KashmirDay #KashmirSolidarityDay #kashmirvalley #UnitedWeStand #BoschPharmaceuticals,” it said.
The company is headquartered in Pakistan. 

Osaka Batteries

In a Facebook post, Japanese firm Osaka Batteries Pakistan had posted on February 5 this year, "Today, let's take a moment to speak out for the people of Kashmir and their struggle for justice. Let us unite and raise our voices in support of liberty.#OsakaBatteries #BatteryHoTouSirfOsaka #KashmirDay."

The company is yet to issue a clarification on it. 

Kia Motors 

Owned by the South Korean auto manufacturer Hyundai Motors, Kia Motors also faced a similar backlash. The company, in a statement, said, "Kia India has taken note of unauthorized social media posts made by an independently-owned dealer based outside the country, using the dealer's own accounts. We have taken strict measures to avoid such misuse of Kia brand identity and have put in place the processes to prevent a recurrence."

Hyundai Motors

South Korean automaker has issued two statements, wherein it has condemned the act and expressed deep regret over the controversy. 
The foreign minister of South Korea, Chung Eui-yong called S Jaishankar discussed several issues, including Hyundai Motors row. He also conveyed his regret for the offence caused to the people and Government of India by the social media post.


PizzaHut

Pizza Hut Pakistan, too, had shared a similar post last year on the same date. So far, the company has not issued any statement. The online users are trending the #boycottpizzahut. 

Schwabe

Germany-headquartered Schwabe's Pakistan branch posted the same message on its Facebook page three days ago. However, the company deleted the post after receiving online backlash from Indian users. The homoeopath brand is yet to apologize to the Indians. 

Atlas Honda Limited

Atlas Honda Limited is a joint venture between Pakistani Atlas company and Japanese Honda Limited. The controversial post was removed after the company faced digital ire from the users. 

Isuzu D-Max
The company withdrew the post. 

Looking at the language and content shared by these multinational companies, one can easily understand it was either a copy-paste job or only one person handles the social media profile of these companies.

Domino's

Domino's India stated that it is devoted to the Indian market and has the highest respect for the country's people and culture. The worldwide pizza restaurant went on to say, "We are here to safeguard its history in perpetuity. We value and respect what the nation has to offer."

Honda

Honda India also issued an apology on Twitter, apologising for any damage caused to Indians' feelings. "Honda is sincerely dedicated to adhering to the laws and sentiments of every nation in which it operates. Any harm caused by this impact is deeply regretted "It stated.

Honda stated as part of its policy that it "seeks to guarantee that, wherever it is present, it avoids comment on race, politics, religion, and social concerns."