A group of activists has launched a campaign called “Tata Bye Bye,” demanding the withdrawal of Tata Group as the lead sponsor of the New York City Marathon. The campaign, initiated by South Asian Left (Salam), accuses the conglomerate of complicity in Israel’s ongoing war on Gaza, alleging Tata’s involvement in enabling Israel’s military operations.
The activists claim Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), a subsidiary of Tata Group, provides IT services and manufactures weapons for the Israeli military. They are urging the New York Road Runners (NYRR) to sever ties with TCS, the title sponsor of the marathon, which is the largest globally with over 51,000 participants in 2023.
The campaign highlights Tata’s business ties with Israeli defense contractors and investments in Israel’s tech sector, accusing the company of hiding behind a “benevolent image” while supporting military actions in Palestinian territories. Activists are calling for full disclosure and divestment from Israel.
