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Ashoka University professor Ali Khan Mahmudabad was arrested in connection with his Facebook post on Operation Sindoor, which evoked concerns from several academics and students.
Ali Khan Mahmudabad, a associate professor at Ashoka University, was granted bail today. (Image: X)
The Supreme Court on Wednesday warned students and academics protesting against Ashoka University professor Ali Khan Mahmudabad’s arrest in connection with his Facebook post on Operation Sindoor, saying they will pass orders in case of any “irresponsible statements”.
A two-judge bench of Justice Surya Kant and Justice NK Singh had granted bail to Mahmudabad, saying there is free speech in the country, but also questioned him about the discharge of his duties.
With regard to the academics and students voicing concerns on Khan’s arrest, Justice Kant said, “Today only we read in the paper, that the students, the professors – if they dare to do anything, we will pass an order.”
“It is not acceptable to us that these some so-called private universities open and all kinds of elements join hands there, and they start making irresponsible statements. We know how to deal with these people; they are not outside our jurisdiction,” he said.
Academics and students from Oxford, Yale, and Jawaharlal Nehru University had protested against Mahmudabad’s arrest and called for his immediate release.
The Ashoka University Faculty Associated had earlier issued a statement condemning the arrest of Mahmudabad and calling it a “calculated harassment”. They alleged he was arrested from his home, not allowed access to necessary medication and driven around for hours without any communication about his whereabouts.
What Did SC Say On Khan’s Remarks?
Mahmudabad was arrested on May 18 after two FIRs were registered against him under stringent charges, including endangering sovereignty and integrity. He was later sent to 14-day judicial custody on Tuesday. He moved the Supreme Court against the FIR, after which the top court agreed to examine his plea.
In his contentious Facebook post, Mahmudabad praised India’s strategic doctrine and the outcome of Operation Sindoor, but criticised ‘symbolic optics’ and the treatment of minorities. He later said his post was misunderstood.
The Supreme Court refused to stay an investigation against the professor, saying that “no case of staying the investigation is made out”. Justice Kant also said Mahmudabad could have used “polite, respectful and neutral language” to convey his feelings without hurting the sentiments of other people.
“You should know what is happening. There is a right to free speech, etc.. Where is the duty? As if the whole country for the last 75 years has only been distributing rights and no duty,” he said.
When Kapil Sibal, arguing for the professor, said his Facebook post was a patriotic commentary, Justice Kant said, “While he is giving an opinion on the effects of war on civilians, army personnel, etc, now he is turning to politics.”
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