Ashoka University Professor Ali Khan Arrested for Controversial Comments on Operation Sindur; Case Reaches Supreme Court
Ashoka University Professor Ali Khan: The arrest of Ali Khan, an assistant professor at Ashoka University in Sonipat, Haryana, has reached the Supreme Court of India. Professor Khan is embroiled in controversy over a social media post concerning the army's Operation Sindur. He is accused of making insensitive remarks related to women in this post. Khan has filed a petition in the Supreme Court, challenging his arrest as unlawful. The Supreme Court has agreed to hear the case and a decision is expected soon.
What is the Case About?
Ali Khan, head of the Political Science department at Ashoka University, is accused of making comments about female army officers during Operation Sindur. Two FIRs have been filed against him based on this social media post. The first FIR was filed based on a complaint by the Sarpanch of Jathedi, alleging that Khan made the controversial remarks in their presence. The second FIR was filed for contempt of notice from the state women's commission chairperson, Renu Bhatia.
Arrest and Remand
Police arrested Ali Khan from Greater Kailash, Delhi, and brought him to Rai police station. He was then presented in court, where police sought a 5-day remand. The court granted a 2-day police remand. Ali Khan's lawyer, Kapil Dev, told the court that his client had not said anything anti-national or controversial. He argued that Khan's post spoke of national unity and integrity, not made any inappropriate remarks.
Supreme Court Hearing Imminent
Senior advocate Kapil Sibal brought the case before the Supreme Court bench headed by Chief Justice B.R. Gavai. The Supreme Court indicated that it would hear the case on May 20th or 21st. The court questioned the police about the filing of two FIRs, asking if they could be merged. Police explained that two separate complaints were received, leading to separate FIRs.
Ali Khan's Stance
Ali Khan's lawyer maintains that his client's social media post contained no anti-national comments. They believe the case is being unjustly amplified, and the arrest is politically motivated. They assert that Khan was merely expressing his views and that everyone has the right to express their opinion in a democracy.
