Srinagar: The Modi-led BJP government is facing increasing criticism for its actions against individuals questioning Operation Sindoor, following India’s defeat in a conflict with Pakistan. In the past week, at least 25 people have been arrested or charged in multiple states, including Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, and the Indian-administered region of Jammu and Kashmir, reportedly for social media activity deemed “anti-national.”
Authorities have employed stringent laws like the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act and colonial-era sedition statutes to detain critics, according to Kashmir Media Service. This crackdown has been met with condemnation from human rights organizations and legal experts, who argue it represents a misuse of law to suppress legitimate dissent in a democratic nation.
The arrests have sparked concerns about an erosion of civil liberties, as many of those detained are students and women. Critics liken the government’s response to actions typical of authoritarian regimes, suggesting that the Indian government is attempting to quash public unrest through intimidation and punishment.
Activists have voiced their disapproval, questioning the rationale behind arresting individuals for expressing opinions on social media. “What kind of democracy arrests its youth for mere social media posts?” asked one rights activist, who highlighted India’s potential shift towards digital authoritarianism. Another activist questioned the government’s fear of inquiries if Operation Sindoor is justified, suggesting that the response indicates a fragile state.
The arrests span several states with 14 individuals charged in Gujarat, three in West Bengal, and three in Uttar Pradesh. In Maharashtra, a 20-year-old student from Kurla was detained for an Instagram post criticizing the military operation, while a 40-year-old woman in Malwani faced charges for a WhatsApp status condemning government actions.
In Chhattisgarh, a young woman was arrested for questioning Operation Sindoor and commenting on the Indian Army via social media. Meanwhile, a 40-year-old man in Assam’s Cachar district was detained after a Facebook post. Karnataka also witnessed an arrest after a man posted a provocative video questioning the military’s response.
In the region of Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir, nine individuals have been charged with spreading rumors and posting inflammatory statements on social media. Critics argue that these actions reflect a troubling trend where questioning military operations is increasingly being criminalized in Modi’s India.