Ashoka University professor sent to 14-day custody over remarks on Op Sindoor

Ashoka University’s Professor Ali Khan Mahmudabad, head of the Political Science department, has been placed under 14-day judicial custody by a Sonipat court after being arrested for a social media post regarding Operation Sindoor, India's military action following the Pahalgam attack. The Haryana Police had initially sought a 7-day remand, but the court opted for judicial custody instead.

Also Read: Ashoka University professor arrested over social media post on Op Sindoor

The professor was arrested on Sunday after his online remarks were interpreted as disrespectful to the Indian Armed Forces, particularly Colonel Sofia Qureshi and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, who led the media briefings on the operation. His post criticized what he referred to as the “optics” of showcasing women officers without corresponding action on broader justice issues.

The arrest followed a complaint from BJP Yuva Morcha’s Haryana secretary Yogesh Jatheri, and a separate case by the Haryana State Commission for Women. Authorities charged Mahmudabad under sections related to threats to national sovereignty and integrity.

Mahmudabad has clarified that his intent was not to undermine the military or its personnel but to critique the selective narratives in public discourse. He stated that he was simply exercising his right to free speech and that his comments were misinterpreted.

He has approached the Supreme Court to challenge his arrest, with the hearing expected to be taken up soon.

The incident has sparked wide backlash. Opposition leaders across parties, including the TMC and AIMIM, condemned the arrest as an attack on civil liberties. Ashoka University’s faculty association has called for his immediate release, describing him as a respected academic and advocate for communal harmony.

Students have also rallied in support, denouncing the arrest as a violation of academic freedom and an attack on the right to express dissent.