Following the Pahalgam attack, the Indian military initiated the operation.
Mahmudabad’s judicial custody was issued by a Sonepat court, notwithstanding the Haryana police’s request for a seven-day remand.
Professor’s Arrest Follows Complaint from BJP Yuva Morcha Leader
Ali Khan Mahmudabad, head of the Political Science department at Ashoka University, was arrested following a complaint lodged by Yogesh Jatheri, general secretary of the BJP Yuva Morcha in Haryana. In addition to this, the Haryana State Commission for Women has also filed a separate case against him.
He has been booked under charges related to endangering the sovereignty and integrity of the nation, in connection with a social media post.
Controversial Post Criticized Armed Forces Media Briefing
The controversy centers on Mahmudabad’s social media post, in which he criticized the media briefings on Operation Sindoor by Colonel Sofia Qureshi and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh. He referred to their presentations as “optics” and “hypocrisy.”
The Haryana State Commission for Women labeled the comments as derogatory toward women officers of the Indian Armed Forces and issued a show-cause notice. Mahmudabad, however, defended his remarks, stating they were misinterpreted and were part of his right to free speech.
Reaction and Backlash
The post drew significant criticism from right-wing commentators. In response, Mahmudabad called on such voices to also speak out for victims of mob lynchings and those affected by forced demolitions.
He emphasized that while the representation of women in the armed forces is commendable, symbolism must be matched by meaningful change on the ground.
Legal Challenge in Supreme Court
Mahmudabad has filed a petition in the Supreme Court challenging his arrest. The matter is scheduled to be heard on Wednesday.
His detention has been widely criticized by opposition leaders, the faculty association of Ashoka University, and student groups. The faculty association described him as a “dedicated academic” committed to communal harmony and public welfare. Students have called the arrest a “stark violation” of academic freedom.