KKN Gurugram Desk | In a significant political development, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and former Member of Parliament from Ambedkar Nagar, Ritesh Pandey, has publicly criticized the arrest of Ashoka University professor Ali Khan Mahmudabad. The professor was detained following a social media post concerning Operation Sindoor, India’s recent military action. Pandey’s condemnation underscores the growing debate over freedom of expression and the legal boundaries of dissent in India.

The Arrest of Professor Ali Khan Mahmudabad

On May 18, 2025, Professor Ali Khan Mahmudabad, head of the Political Science Department at Ashoka University, was arrested by Haryana Police. The arrest stemmed from a social media post where Mahmudabad critiqued the press briefing conducted by female officers following Operation Sindoor, suggesting it was more of a performative act rather than a substantive engagement. The post was perceived by some as disrespectful to the armed forces and allegedly promoting communal disharmony.

Complaints were filed by Renu Bhatia, Chairperson of the Haryana State Women’s Commission, and Yogesh Jatheri, a BJP youth wing leader. The charges included promoting enmity between different groups and acts prejudicial to maintaining harmony. Mahmudabad was taken into custody from his residence in Delhi and is currently held at Rai police station in Sonipat.

Ritesh Pandey’s Statement and Support

Ritesh Pandey, a prominent BJP leader, expressed his dismay over the arrest through a post on social media platform X (formerly Twitter). He described the arrest as “unfortunate” and emphasized his personal acquaintance with Professor Mahmudabad, highlighting the professor’s integrity and commitment to the nation.

Pandey stated, “I know Professor Ali Khan personally; we have been friends for a long time. His dedication to the nation is unquestionable. The social media post, which led to his arrest, had already been deleted. There was nothing in it that warranted such action. I hope justice is served promptly.”

Academic and Civil Society Reactions

The arrest has sparked widespread concern among academics, students, and civil society groups. Colleagues at Ashoka University have criticized the arrest as an infringement on academic freedom and freedom of expression. Students have organized demonstrations and issued statements demanding the university stand in support of Professor Mahmudabad.

Civil society organizations in Lucknow, including former vice-chancellors and cultural activists, have also voiced their support for Mahmudabad, calling for his immediate release and the termination of what they describe as an unwarranted investigation.

Legal Proceedings and Supreme Court Involvement

In response to the arrest, Professor Mahmudabad has filed a petition in the Supreme Court of India, challenging the legality of his detention. The Supreme Court has agreed to hear the plea, with a hearing scheduled for later this week. Legal experts and human rights organizations are closely monitoring the case, viewing it as a critical test of the balance between national security concerns and individual freedoms.

Broader Implications for Freedom of Expression

The incident has reignited debates over the state of freedom of expression in India. Critics argue that the arrest reflects a broader pattern of suppressing dissent and targeting intellectuals who challenge prevailing narratives. Supporters of Mahmudabad contend that his comments were within the bounds of academic critique and did not constitute any criminal offense.

The case also raises questions about the role of social media in public discourse and the extent to which individuals can express controversial opinions without fear of legal repercussions.

The arrest of Professor Ali Khan Mahmudabad has become a focal point in discussions about civil liberties, academic freedom, and the limits of dissent in India. With political figures like Ritesh Pandey speaking out against the arrest, the case underscores the complexities of maintaining national security while upholding democratic principles. As the legal proceedings unfold, the outcome will likely have significant implications for the future of free expression in the country.