NEW DELHI: The arrest of Professor Ali Khan Mahmudabad has sparked widespread concern, with Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind (JUH) President Mahmood Madani condemning the move as a serious breach of legal and democratic freedoms.
Mahmood Madani stated that, based on the information he received, the professor’s statements do not amount to provocation or disrespect. He described the charges against Prof. Mahmudabad as unjustifiable and incomprehensible.
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Concerns Over Freedom of Expression
Madani emphasized that criticism and dissent are fundamental rights in any democracy, even if directed at the government. He clarified that speaking against a political entity or organization should never be equated with opposing the nation itself.
“The arrest of Professor Ali Khan Mahmudabad raises serious questions about the application of justice, especially when responses to controversial remarks by political figures differ vastly,” said Madani.
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Accusations of Double Standards
Highlighting apparent double standards, Mahmood Madani pointed out remarks made by a Madhya Pradesh minister who referred to Colonel Qureshi as a “terrorist’s sister.” Despite the judiciary reprimanding the minister, no action was taken by the government or his political party.
In stark contrast, Professor Ali Khan Mahmudabad was swiftly arrested, even though his statements were less provocative.
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Call for Immediate Action and Fairness
Madani urged the courts to uphold the true purpose of the law: to protect citizens’ freedoms rather than suppress opposition voices. He stressed that democratic decision-making thrives on respecting differing opinions, not on fear or enforced silence.
He also called on the Indian government to intervene and ensure that Professor Ali Khan Mahmudabad’s arrest is promptly and effectively overturned.
Background of the Arrest
Professor Ali Khan Mahmudabad, head of the Political Science department at Ashoka University in Haryana, was taken into custody in Delhi following a complaint lodged by a member of the BJP’s youth wing. The complaint was related to a social media post he made concerning Operation Sindoor.
