Ashoka University Professor Dr. Ali Khan Mahmudabad Moves Supreme Court Against Arrest Over Remarks on Operation Sindoor

Ashoka University professor Dr. Ali Khan Mahmudabad challenges his arrest in the Supreme Court after being accused of making remarks that allegedly endangered India’s unity and integrity.

New Delhi, May 19, 2025 — In a significant legal development, Ashoka University associate professor Dr. Ali Khan Mahmudabad has approached the Supreme Court of India to challenge his recent arrest, which has stirred a nationwide debate on academic freedom and freedom of expression.

The arrest was made on Sunday, following two FIRs lodged against the professor. He has been accused of making statements during a public discussion on “Operation Sindoor” that allegedly posed a threat to the sovereignty, unity, and integrity of India.

Dr. Mahmudabad’s petition was urgently mentioned before a Supreme Court Bench headed by Chief Justice of India BR Gavai on Monday morning. Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, representing the professor, urged the court to hear the plea on a priority basis. Taking note of the submissions, the CJI assured that the matter will be listed for hearing on Tuesday or Wednesday.

Controversy Over Operation Sindoor Comments

The controversy stems from Dr. Mahmudabad’s alleged remarks during a panel discussion where he reportedly criticized certain aspects of the Operation Sindoor initiative, which was recently launched as part of a national security effort. The exact nature of his statements remains unclear, but authorities claim his comments were inflammatory and could disrupt national harmony.

Following these remarks, the Haryana State Commission for Women issued a notice to the professor, questioning his statements and seeking a formal explanation. Soon after, two separate First Information Reports (FIRs) were registered in Haryana, leading to his arrest.

Legal and Academic Circles React

Dr. Mahmudabad’s arrest has triggered widespread reactions from legal experts, human rights activists, and academic circles. Many have condemned the move, calling it an attack on academic freedom and freedom of speech, both protected under Article 19 of the Indian Constitution.

Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, while presenting the case, argued that the arrest was politically motivated and based on misinterpretation of the professor’s remarks. He emphasized that criticism of government policy does not amount to sedition or anti-national activity.

What Happens Next?

With the Supreme Court set to hear the matter in the coming days, all eyes are on whether the apex court will grant relief to the professor. If the court finds procedural lapses or violation of constitutional rights, it could have wider implications for similar cases across India.

About Dr. Ali Khan Mahmudabad

Dr. Mahmudabad is a well-known academician and political historian who teaches at Ashoka University, a private liberal arts university in Haryana. Known for his expertise in South Asian history and politics, he has written extensively on communalism, nationalism, and civil liberties in India.