Ashoka University professor arrested over social media post on Op Sindoor

Ali Khan Mahmudabad, an associate professor and head of the Political Science department at Ashoka University in Haryana, has been arrested in Delhi following a social media post that referenced Operation Sindoor, India's military response to the recent terrorist attacks in Pahalgam. The arrest was made after a complaint by a member of the BJP’s youth wing, with the Haryana State Commission for Women also taking action by issuing a notice to the professor.

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Mahmudabad’s post questioned the overwhelming praise from certain political circles for Colonel Sofia Qureshi, one of the officers involved in the operation. He contrasted this with what he called a lack of similar concern for victims of communal violence and home demolitions. Authorities allege his comments were inflammatory and potentially disruptive to communal harmony. However, Mahmudabad insists that his words were misinterpreted and that the post was a call for consistency in the value of human rights and justice, not a critique of the armed forces.

The Women's Commission criticized his language, particularly his use of terms like "genocide" and "dehumanisation," claiming these misrepresented facts and incited division. The professor was summoned to appear before the panel on May 15 but did not respond. The Commission expressed disappointment over his absence, stating that they had expected a clarification or apology.

Political figures and academics have rallied behind Mahmudabad, calling the arrest excessive and an infringement on the right to free expression. AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi and CPI(M) leader Subhashini Ali have both spoken out against the move, accusing the police of suppressing dissenting voices. Meanwhile, Ashoka University confirmed it is gathering more information about the incident and has assured full cooperation with the ongoing investigation. The institution emphasized that the professor’s views were expressed in his personal capacity.