Ashoka University professor detained for posting about ‘Operation Sindoor’: All the facts surrounding the incident
On 18 May 2025, Ashoka University Associate Professor Ali Khan Mahmoodabad was arrested by Haryana Police, sending a countrywide debate churning on freedom of speech and academic freedom. The arrest was on account of a social media message where he referred to ‘Operation Sindoor,’ an operation conducted by the military of India against the Pahalgam attack in Pakistan and PoK. His message was claimed to be derogatory towards the Indian Army and the female personnel serving there.
Background of the incident
Ashoka University Department of Political Science head Professor Ali Khan Mahmoodabad was charged with a complaint by Haryana Women’s Commission Chairperson Renu Bhatia. According to Bhatia, the social media post by Mahmoodabad included defamatory remarks against the army and particularly women in the army. She asserted that she was carrying out a responsibility of the government and wasn’t acting under any political agenda. Renu Bhatia has had 36 years of association with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
Following the arrest, Mahmoodabad was required to spend two nights in a lockup in Sonipat. In protest of this event, Ashoka University students and teachers have come together and initiated continuous protests. They are taking turns gathering on the university campus and standing in solidarity with the professor. Academics from all over the country have also condemned this arrest and stated that the statement of the professor was misinterpreted.
Legal status
Following the arrest, the legal representation of Professor Mahmoodabad lodged a petition in the Supreme Court. In this petition, the arrest is being challenged and the arrest has been characterized as violative of the freedom of expression afforded under the Constitution. The Supreme Court has scheduled the case for hearing on May 20 or 21. Kapil Sibal, a senior advocate, appeared in this petition on behalf of the professor and argued that Mahmoodabad had been singled out for the comments made in the “spirit of patriotism”.
In this matter, which is full of seriousness, the bench of Chief Justice B.R. Gavai and Justice A.G. Masih has decided to hear it urgently.
Ashoka University and the world of education’s reaction
Ashoka University has made a statement regarding this issue, stating that they have noticed the professor’s absence and are monitoring the situation. While the university has not made any direct comment regarding the arrest, it has expressed a concern about academic freedom.
Students and faculty collectively have indicated that this issue is not merely about an individual but rather about freedom for the entire educational community. They are calling upon the university to come out openly in favor of the professor and champion freedom of speech.
Widespread impact and debate
This whole case has again brought a controversy throughout the nation regarding what should be the boundaries of freedom of expression in a democratic society, particularly when it comes to scholars and teachers. If we make an arrest over a statement posted on social media, then it becomes a question of thinking whether we are actually honoring freedom of expression.
This episode also reveals how necessary it has become to be a thoughtful speaker in the political and social scenario of today. Particularly those who are connected with education, art, or life in the public domain – they need to be extremely careful while speaking out.
Conclusion
Professor Ali Khan Mahmoodabad’s arrest has raised the question nationally whether our scholars have the freedom to think and express themselves or not. Do governments and institutions of today truly endorse democratic values?
The legal battle is still ongoing, and everyone is waiting for the Supreme Court hearing. Whatever the verdict in this case, it will be a precedent for the future—not only for scholars, but for everyone who wishes to make their opinions heard.
It’s not about a tweet; it’s been transformed into a symbol of a greater query: is freedom of speech secure in India?
May 19, 2025