New Delhi, June 14, 2026 — Public anger over the deaths of three Indian sailors in a U.S. military strike has spilled onto the streets of the national capital, with several auto-rickshaw drivers removing posters linked to the U.S. Embassy’s Freedom 250 campaign. The campaign was launched to mark the 250th anniversary of American independence on July 4, 2026.
The Delhi Auto Drivers US Posters Protest emerged days after a U.S. strike hit the Palau-flagged tanker MT Settebello in the Gulf of Oman, resulting in the deaths of three Indian crew members. Videos showing drivers tearing down posters featuring U.S. President Donald Trump and campaign branding have circulated widely on social media.
Delhi Auto Drivers US Posters Protest Fueled by Sailor Deaths
The outrage follows the June 10 strike on the MT Settebello, which carried 24 Indian crew members. Twenty-one sailors were rescued, while three Indians — Aditya Sharma, Shivanand Chaurashiya, and Patnala Suresh — lost their lives.
The United States said the vessel was targeted during enforcement of a blockade related to Iranian oil shipments and claimed the ship failed to comply with instructions. However, the vessel’s operators disputed that account and called for an independent investigation.
India Registers Strong Protest
India summoned senior U.S. diplomatic officials and lodged a strong protest following the deaths of the sailors. The Ministry of External Affairs condemned attacks on commercial shipping and called for a return to dialogue and diplomacy in the region.
The incident has become one of the most serious maritime disputes between India and the United States in recent years. Concerns have also grown regarding the safety of Indian seafarers working in the Gulf region, where thousands are employed on commercial vessels.
Freedom 250 Campaign Faces Public Backlash
The Freedom 250 campaign involved promotional banners displayed on auto-rickshaws across Delhi as part of public outreach marking America’s upcoming 250th Independence Day celebrations. Following the tanker strike, several drivers reportedly removed the posters in protest.
Observers say the reaction reflects broader public frustration over the deaths of Indian sailors and concerns about the risks faced by civilian maritime workers in conflict zones. The controversy has also drawn renewed attention to India’s diplomatic response and the protection of Indian citizens working abroad.
Diplomatic Tensions Under Scrutiny
Despite the current tensions, India and the United States continue to maintain broad strategic ties across defense, trade, and technology. However, the deaths of the three sailors have become a flashpoint in public discourse and could remain a sensitive issue in bilateral relations in the coming weeks.