Austrian economist Gunther Fehlinger-Jahn has sparked widespread anger in India after posting on X calling to “dismantle India into Ex-India.” He also shared a map dividing Indian territory among neighbouring countries, including Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, and a separate Khalistan.

His post included support for Khalistan and criticism of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, prompting his account to be withheld in India. Screenshots of the post went viral, triggering backlash from political leaders and netizens.

The post that caused outrage

Fehlinger wrote:

“I call to dismantle India into Ex-India. Narendra Modi is a Russian man. We need a friend of freedom for Khalistan.”

The map showed Punjab, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan as part of Khalistan, and Jammu and Kashmir as part of Pakistan.

The post drew strong criticism online, with many labelling Fehlinger a “troll.” Shiv Sena MP Priyanka Chaturvedi called on the Ministry of External Affairs to act, saying:

“What insanity is this? @MEAIndia must take this up with the Austrian Embassy.”

Some social media users also recalled Fehlinger’s 2023 tweet supporting Rahul Gandhi while criticising Prime Minister Modi as “pro-Russia and pro-China.”

One user commented:

“Modi doesn’t bow, bend, or break. They want a puppet PM who will wag his tail when they whistle. That’s why Pappu looks like their dream candidate, zero spine, zero brains, 100% obedience.”

Who is Gunther Fehlinger?

Born in 1968 in Linz, Austria, Fehlinger is known in European policy circles for advocating NATO and European Union expansion. He studied International Business at the Vienna University of Economics and Business.

Fehlinger has previously called for the breakup of other countries, including Russia and Brazil, as part of his push for strengthening Western alliances. His activism often includes provocative statements about countries seen as rivals of NATO.

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