Why Was Haryana-based Ashoka University Professor Arrested for Comments on Operation Sindoor?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In a controversial incident, Professor Ali Khan Mahmudabad of Ashoka University was arrested for remarks on Operation Sindoor, sparking debates about free speech and the implications of his statements. The arrest followed a complaint from a local BJP leader, raising questions about academic freedom and the role of authorities in regulating speech.
Key Takeaways
- Ali Khan Mahmudabad is a political science professor at Ashoka University.
- His arrest relates to comments on Operation Sindoor.
- Charges include inciting rebellion and sedition.
- The arrest has sparked discussions on academic freedom.
- The university is cooperating with authorities.
Chandigarh, May 18 (NationPress) Ali Khan Mahmudabad, aged 42, who is a political science professor at Ashoka University in Haryana, has been taken into custody for comments regarding Operation Sindoor.
His arrest came following a complaint from Yogesh Jatheri, the general secretary of BJP Yuva Morcha in Haryana, according to sources.
Mahmudabad has been charged under sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita concerning inciting armed rebellion or engaging in subversive activities, as well as insulting religious sentiments.
Sedition charges have also been levied against him.
However, the police have yet to release an official statement regarding his arrest.
Delhi University professor Apoorvanand claimed in a post on X, "The Haryana police have unlawfully detained Dr. Ali Khan. He was brought to Haryana from Delhi without a transit remand. The FIR was filed at 8 PM, and the police arrived at his residence the following morning at 7 AM."
He urged intervention from the Delhi High Court and the Supreme Court, referencing the Pravir Purkayastha judgment.
The Haryana State Commission for Women Chairperson Renu Bhatia took note of Mahmudabad's comments, which were viewed as derogatory toward women in the Indian Armed Forces and potentially inciting communal tensions. The commission summoned him, but he did not attend.
He later stated that the commission had "misinterpreted" his remarks.
"I am astonished that the Women's Commission, while exceeding its jurisdiction, has completely misunderstood my posts and distorted their meaning," Mahmudabad stated on X.
In regard to the professor's arrest, Ashoka University commented, "We have been informed that Professor Ali Khan Mahmudabad was taken into police custody earlier today. We are currently in the process of gathering details about the case. The university will fully cooperate with the police and local authorities in the investigation."
Point of View
It is crucial to approach this issue with a balanced viewpoint. The case poses significant questions about the limits of free speech within academia and the responsibilities of educators. As we navigate this sensitive situation, it is vital to uphold the principles of justice and ensure that academic discourse remains protected in our democratic society.
NationPress
09/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What were the reasons for Ali Khan Mahmudabad's arrest?
He was arrested for comments he made regarding Operation Sindoor, which were deemed to incite rebellion and insult religious beliefs, leading to charges of sedition.
Who filed the complaint against him?
The complaint was filed by Yogesh Jatheri, the general secretary of the BJP Yuva Morcha in Haryana.
What has Ashoka University's response been?
Ashoka University stated that they were aware of the arrest and are in the process of gathering details about the case while offering full cooperation with the authorities.
What is the position of the Haryana State Commission for Women in this case?
The commission took notice of Mahmudabad's remarks, which they viewed as derogatory toward women in the Armed Forces, and summoned him for clarification.
What does the legal framework say regarding such arrests?
The arrest was made under sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which addresses inciting armed rebellion and insulting religious sentiments.
