Article Today, New Delhi:
The launch of Apple’s iPhone 17 Pro in saffron colour has triggered political debate across the country. BJP MP Sudhanshu Trivedi described the model as a tribute to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s stature. His remarks sparked discussions on whether a smartphone variant was being turned into a political symbol. Critics argued that linking a product’s colour to political identity blurred the line between commerce and politics.
Demand and Black Market Trade
The saffron iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max models are witnessing heavy demand in several cities. Dealers in Noida, Delhi’s Lajpat Nagar, Karol Bagh, and Gaffar Market have reportedly sold the devices at premiums of up to Rs. 25,000 over the official price. Customers are being asked to pay in cash, with many resellers citing stock shortages as the reason for inflated rates. The situation reflects a broader pattern of festive-season shortages being exploited for profit.
Apple’s Position
On its official India website, Apple has confirmed that deliveries for the saffron-colored models will be delayed until the third week of October. Other colour variants are expected to reach customers earlier, by the second week of October. While BJP leaders have linked the delay and demand to what they describe as “Modi’s influence,” Apple has maintained that the colour is part of its design strategy and not politically motivated.
Consumer Appeal and Market Impact
Despite the company’s clarification, demand remains high among consumers keen to purchase the device during the festive season. Dealers have capitalised on this eagerness by creating a thriving parallel market. Analysts suggest that the trend underscores Apple’s growing focus on India, both as a consumer base and as a symbolic market. The debate continues on whether the saffron iPhone will provide political mileage domestically, even as Apple benefits commercially from the colour’s appeal.
