New Delhi, May 18, 2025 — A prominent Indian academic was detained in the capital on Sunday following a controversial social media post that questioned the narrative surrounding a recent military operation against Pakistan, prompting widespread concern from free speech advocates and civil society groups.
Dr. Arif Hussain, a professor of political science at a private university in Haryana, was arrested after a complaint lodged by a local leader of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The charges against Hussain include inciting communal discord, promoting sedition, and offending religious sentiments, according to police reports. The complaint centers on a post Hussain shared on a social media platform on May 9, which critiqued the media portrayal of Operation Saffron, a military offensive launched by India against targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir on May 6.
In his post, Hussain expressed concern over the politicization of military achievements and highlighted issues of communal harmony within India. “It’s heartening to see the valor of our forces celebrated, but the same enthusiasm must extend to protecting all citizens from violence and ensuring justice for marginalized communities,” he wrote, referencing media briefings by military officials, including Major Anjali Rao and Squadron Leader Neha Virdi.
The post drew sharp criticism from certain quarters, with the Haryana State Commission for Scheduled Castes and Tribes issuing a summons last week, alleging that Hussain’s remarks undermined the armed forces and stoked religious tensions. Hussain, a noted columnist, defended his statement, posting on X that his intent was to advocate for unity and accountability. “My words were about protecting lives and upholding constitutional values, not disparaging anyone,” he said.
The arrest has ignited a firestorm of criticism from academics, activists, and human rights organizations. In a joint statement issued on Saturday, over 1,500 scholars and public intellectuals condemned the detention as “a direct assault on intellectual freedom and the right to dissent.” The statement praised Hussain’s call for safeguarding citizens’ rights while acknowledging the professionalism of India’s military personnel.
India and Pakistan reached a ceasefire agreement on May 10 after intense cross-border exchanges that left dozens dead on both sides. Pakistan reported 28 fatalities from Indian strikes, while India confirmed 12 casualties from retaliatory attacks. The operation has fueled heated debates about national security and domestic policies in both nations.
Critics of the Indian government have pointed to Hussain’s arrest as part of a broader trend of curbing free expression, particularly among those raising concerns about minority rights. Human rights groups have long flagged issues like vigilante violence and selective enforcement of laws, urging stronger measures to protect vulnerable communities. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has previously spoken against extrajudicial violence, but activists argue that systemic reforms remain elusive.
Hussain’s university has not issued an official statement on the matter, though sources indicate that faculty members are rallying in his support. As the case unfolds, it is likely to intensify discussions about the state of democratic freedoms in India.
