rofessor at Ashoka University Arrested Over Remarks on Women Officers in Operation Sindoor
Sonipat, Haryana | May 18, 2025 — A professor from Ashoka University was arrested on Sunday following controversial remarks allegedly made about women officers who led a key military briefing on Operation Sindoor. The operation has garnered widespread praise for both its strategic execution and for highlighting the growing leadership roles of women in India’s armed forces.
The professor, whose name has been withheld pending legal proceedings, teaches in the Department of Political Science. During a recent public lecture, they reportedly questioned the competence of the women officers and implied that their participation in Operation Sindoor was a "publicity stunt." A video clip of the lecture quickly went viral on social media, sparking widespread criticism from veterans’ associations, student groups, and the general public.
Police have booked the professor under multiple sections of the Indian Penal Code, including those related to promoting enmity, defamation, and outraging the modesty of women. Ashoka University has acknowledged the incident and confirmed that it is cooperating with authorities while launching an internal investigation.
Operation Sindoor has been celebrated for breaking gender barriers in the military, with women officers playing critical roles in both the planning and execution phases. The professor’s remarks were widely condemned as sexist and disrespectful.
Before being taken into custody, the professor issued a brief statement:
“My comments have been taken out of context. I have the highest respect for the armed forces and the role women play within them. This is a misunderstanding.”
The incident has sparked a national debate on academic freedom, free speech, and the responsibilities of educators. While some academics voiced concern about the erosion of intellectual liberty, others stressed that discriminatory or harmful speech should not be excused under the banner of free discourse.
A spokesperson for Ashoka University commented:
“We value both the principles of free speech and the importance of respectful engagement. An internal review is currently underway, and appropriate action will be taken in accordance with its findings.”
Legal experts suggest that this case could set a precedent regarding the boundaries of free speech in academic institutions, particularly when national pride and gender equality are at stake.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What did the professor say?
The exact remarks have not been officially disclosed, but sources claim the professor criticized the involvement of women officers in Operation Sindoor, questioning their competence and suggesting their participation served political motives.
2. Who is the professor?
Authorities and the university have not publicly disclosed the professor’s identity, citing ongoing legal and institutional proceedings.
3. What is Operation Sindoor?
Operation Sindoor is a recent military mission by the Indian armed forces, known for its success and notable involvement of high-ranking women officers in both operational briefings and planning roles.
4. Why was the professor arrested?
The arrest was made under various sections of the IPC related to promoting enmity, defamation, and insulting the modesty of women. The charges followed public outrage and the circulation of a viral video.
5. How has Ashoka University responded?
The university stated that it is cooperating fully with the police and is conducting its own internal inquiry. It emphasized its commitment to both academic freedom and mutual respect.
6. What has the public reaction been?
Reactions are mixed. While many have condemned the remarks and supported the arrest, others in the academic community are concerned about the implications for free speech and open debate.
7. What happens next?
The professor is currently in custody, with a court hearing expected soon. The university will also determine potential disciplinary actions based on the outcome of its inquiry.
8. Is this an issue of free speech?
The incident has sparked a wider conversation. While some argue for the protection of academic freedom, others stress that speech which may perpetuate discrimination or undermine national values must face accountability.
Published on May 18, 2025 | By Selvi