By HYDERABAD, May 12, 2025: In yet another incident that has sparked public outrage and political condemnation, workers allegedly affiliated with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) vandalised a popular outlet of Karachi Bakery in Hyderabad. The incident occurred on Sunday, reigniting debates over misplaced nationalism and repeated targeting of Indian businesses with perceived foreign links.
Vandalism at Karachi Bakery Sparks Tension
The incident took place at the Karachi Bakery outlet located in Banjara Hills, one of Hyderabad’s busiest commercial areas. Eyewitnesses reported that a group of BJP workers stormed into the premises, shouting slogans and demanding the immediate removal of the word “Karachi” from the bakery’s signage.
The group proceeded to damage the display boards, break glass panels, and disrupt operations. The staff, reportedly shocked and frightened, vacated the premises as tensions escalated.
Store Staff and Public React in Fear
Employees working at the outlet described the situation as “sudden and frightening.” One employee, speaking anonymously, said, “They came in groups, shouting and pushing things around. We didn’t know what was happening. We’re just workers trying to do our job.”
Several customers inside the store at the time fled the area, fearing further violence. A nearby shopkeeper recounted, “There was chaos. Some of them had rods, and people just ran out. This isn’t the first time this has happened.”
Political Motivation Behind the Attack
According to preliminary information, the group responsible for the attack claimed that the name “Karachi” is “offensive” and “a reminder of Pakistan”, especially at a time when nationalistic sentiments are being invoked in light of ongoing tensions along the India-Pakistan border.
This isn’t the first time the bakery has faced such hostility. In 2019, similar protests occurred where BJP-affiliated groups demanded a name change, forcing the owners to temporarily cover up the word “Karachi” on their storefronts.
Karachi Bakery: An Indian Legacy Since 1953
Contrary to the accusations made by protestors, Karachi Bakery is an entirely Indian-owned enterprise established in 1953 by Sri Khanchand Ramnani, a Sindhi Hindu who migrated from Karachi (now in Pakistan) to India during the Partition.
The brand, based in Hyderabad, has become a household name known for its signature biscuits, cakes, and confectionery. Over the decades, it has established multiple outlets across India and built a reputation for quality and heritage.
A representative from the bakery reiterated, “We are Indian. The name ‘Karachi’ reflects our founder’s birthplace and is part of our family’s history. It’s not a political statement.”
Police Response and Investigation Underway
Following the vandalism, local police reached the spot and dispersed the crowd. An FIR has been registered under multiple sections of the Indian Penal Code, including criminal trespass, mischief, and unlawful assembly.
A senior official from the Hyderabad Police Commissionerate stated, “We are reviewing CCTV footage and will identify all involved. Nobody is above the law. Such acts of violence will not be tolerated.”
Sources suggest that arrests may follow soon, and security has been stepped up around other Karachi Bakery outlets in the city.
Condemnation from Civil Society and Opposition Leaders
The incident has drawn widespread condemnation from civil society, opposition parties, and business leaders. Many have described the act as a “misdirected show of pseudo-nationalism” targeting a legacy Indian brand.
Asaduddin Owaisi, MP from Hyderabad and leader of AIMIM, tweeted:
“Karachi Bakery is an Indian institution, born of Partition pain and perseverance. Attacking it is an insult to our entrepreneurial spirit and secular fabric.”
Congress leader Revanth Reddy also condemned the attack, stating that “those who claim to protect Indian culture are destroying Indian businesses.”
Business Community Voices Concerns
Entrepreneurs and small business owners across Telangana expressed concern over the incident, fearing a pattern of politically motivated attacks that discourage investment and economic activity.
Hyderabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry issued a statement urging authorities to take swift action and protect business establishments from vandalism, regardless of their names or themes.
“Names like Karachi, Lahore, or Bombay reflect historical roots and should not be interpreted through the lens of current geopolitics,” the statement read.
Social Media Divided Over the Incident
The attack triggered a storm on social media, with hashtags like #KarachiBakery, #VandalismNotPatriotism, and #SupportLocalBusinesses trending nationwide. While many users condemned the attack and showed solidarity with the bakery, others supported the demand for removing the word “Karachi.”
Some netizens called for “historical awareness and respect for migrant identities,” emphasizing how Partition-era survivors used such names to preserve cultural memories.
Conclusion: A Test for Tolerance and Rule of Law
The repeated targeting of Karachi Bakery, a symbol of India’s multicultural heritage and entrepreneurial resilience, raises important questions about freedom of expression, historical identity, and the limits of nationalism.
While political motivations may fuel such incidents, the role of law enforcement and the collective voice of society will determine whether India upholds its commitment to pluralism, peaceful coexistence, and economic freedom.
