Sun May 18 11:20:03 UTC 2025: **News Article:**

**Indian Professor Arrested Over Social Media Post Criticizing Military Briefings**

**New Delhi, India** – Ali Khan Mahmudabad, an associate professor of political science at Ashoka University, was arrested on Sunday following a complaint filed by a youth leader from the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The arrest stems from a Facebook post Mahmudabad made on May 8th, commenting on the recent military operation against Pakistan and subsequent media briefings by two female officers from the Indian armed forces, Colonel Sofiya Qureshi and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, which were held after Operation Sindoor, launched on May 6.

In his post, Mahmudabad stated, “I am very happy to see so many right wing commentators applauding Colonel Sophia Qureishi but perhaps they could also equally loudly demand that the victims of mob lynchings, arbitrary bulldozing and others who are victims of the BJP’s hate mongering be protected as Indian citizens. The optics of two women soldiers presenting their findings is importantly but optics must translate to reality on the ground otherwise it’s just hypocrisy.” He alluded to the juxtaposition of celebrating a Muslim female officer while overlooking alleged discrimination against Muslims in India.

Mahmudabad has been charged under sections of the criminal code relating to inciting communal disharmony, rebellion, and insulting religious beliefs. According to local media, the Haryana State Commission for Women had summoned Mahmudabad earlier this week, alleging that his comments “disparaged women officers in the Indian Armed Forces and promoted communal disharmony.”

Mahmudabad defended his comments on X (formerly Twitter), stating that they were “misunderstood” and aimed at safeguarding the lives of citizens and soldiers, denying any misogynistic intent.

The arrest has sparked outrage amongst academics and activists, with many expressing concerns about freedom of speech and academic freedom in India. An open letter signed by approximately 1,200 individuals condemned the arrest. They stated Mahmudabad’s comments were proof that the secular vision of India’s founders is still alive.

This incident comes amidst growing concerns about the Modi government’s treatment of minorities and dissent. Rights groups have accused the government of allowing Hindu vigilante groups to operate with impunity, and of using “bulldozer justice” to target Muslim properties. Amnesty International has urged the government to stop “unjust targeted demolition of Muslim properties”.

The arrest occurred shortly after India and Pakistan agreed to a ceasefire on May 10, following days of escalated tensions and cross-border attacks.

Read More