Vishal Dadlani questions arrest of Ashoka University Professor Ali Khan Mahmudabad
New Delhi: Noted singer and music composer Vishal Dadlani has come out in support of Ali Khan Mahmudabad, Associate Professor of Political Science at Ashoka University, who was arrested by Haryana Police on May 18 over his social media posts related to ‘Operation Sindoor’.
In a strong statement posted on Facebook, Dadlani shared one of Professor Mahmudabad’s controversial posts and questioned the basis of the arrest. “What about this post is wrong or arrest-worthy?” he wrote, expressing shock over the charges imposed on the academic.
Dadlani’s comment is among the first public reactions from a celebrity in the entertainment industry regarding the arrest, which has sparked outrage across academic and civil society circles.
Professor Mahmudabad was arrested after two FIRs were registered against him at Sonipat’s Rai Police Station. The complaints were filed by Haryana State Women Commission Chairperson Renu Bhatia and BJP Yuva Morcha general-secretary Yogesh Jathedi. He faces serious charges under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including promoting enmity and endangering the country's sovereignty and integrity.
The arrest has drawn criticism from several quarters. The Faculty Association of Ashoka University released a statement condemning what they called “calculated harassment” and “groundless charges”. The Association said Professor Mahmudabad is a respected academic who has always worked to promote communal harmony and responsible dialogue.
His lawyer, Kapil Balyan, told the media that similar views have been expressed on social media by retired Army officers and political leaders without facing such action. He also revealed that Professor Mahmudabad was not given access to essential medicines and was driven around for hours after being picked up from his home in New Delhi.
The Haryana State Women’s Commission had earlier summoned Mahmudabad over his posts, claiming that they disparaged women officers involved in the military operation. In response, Mahmudabad had issued a public statement saying his words were misinterpreted and that he only intended to promote peace and applaud the armed forces.
Known for his outspoken political views, Dadlani has often criticised government policies and has been vocal on issues of civil liberties.
As the case proceeds, Mahmudabad remains in police and judicial custody across the two FIRs and is expected to be produced in court again on May 20.
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Committee constituted to examine on holding matches at Chinnaswamy stadium in Bengaluru
Bengaluru (PTI): Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara on Monday said that a committee has been constituted to examine giving permissions to hold cricket matches at Chinnaswamy Stadium here.
He said Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) has sought permission to hold Vijay Hazare Trophy match at the stadium without allowing the spectators for now.
The minister held a meeting with KSCA office bearers, senior officials and police officers at the Vidhana Soudha, regarding holding cricket matches at the stadium.
Major matches were stopped at the Chinnaswamy Stadium after a stampede had occurred outside it, during the Royal Challengers Bengaluru's (RCB) IPL victory celebration on June 4, in which 11 people died.
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"We have formed a committee headed by the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) commissioner. The committee consists of the police commissioner, PWD, Fire and Health department officials, who will visit the stadium and give feedback," Parameshwara said.
Speaking to reporters here, he said, permission has been sought by the KSCA for the Vijay Hazare Trophy matches. Also, permissions have been sought for IPL matches, for which there is time.
"Vijay Hazare match is on December 24. The KSCA has requested for permissions without allowing spectators, only matches will be held. A committee has been constituted, which will visit the stadium and give me feedback after examining things there, based on which we will make a decision."
Noting that Bengaluru City Police Commissioner had already written a letter to KSCA stating that it is necessary to follow the 17-point recommendations, the home minister said the committee will review what has been completed and inform the government.
He said that KSCA has said that it will comply with the recommendations.
The committee on Monday visited the stadium, official sources said.
