Modi govt launches crackdown on critics as questioning defeat criminalized
Srinagar: In the wake of humiliating defeat of India in war with Pakistan, the Modi-led BJP government has intensified its crackdown on free expression, targeting those who dare to question or criticize the so-called Operation Sindoor.
According to Kashmir Media Service, at least 25 people, mostly Muslims, have been arrested or booked across several Indian states—including Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, and Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir—for social media posts, WhatsApp statuses, or Instagram stories deemed “anti-national.” The authorities are using draconian laws such as the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and sedition-era colonial statutes to suppress opposition.
Human rights groups and legal experts have condemned the arrests, calling them a blatant misuse of law to stifle legitimate dissent in a democratic society. Many of the detainees include students and women, raising concerns about the deepening assault on civil liberties. The Modi government’s response has drawn comparisons to authoritarian regimes, with critics saying the regime is attempting to convert public outrage into silence through fear and punishment.
“What kind of democracy arrests its youth for mere social media posts?” asked one rights activist, warning that India’s slide into digital authoritarianism is accelerating.
If Operation Sindoor is so justified, why is the Indian government terrified of questions, asked another activist. Can a Facebook post destabilize India, or is the government that fragile, he added.
14 individuals have been booked in Gujarat for sharing content against Modi regime on social media following Operation Sindoor, 3 in West Bengal, 3 in Uttar Pradesh on similar charges.
In Maharashtra, a 20-year-old student from Kurla was arrested for uploading remarks on Instagram criticizing the military operation. Separately, a 40-year-old woman from Malwani was booked after posting a WhatsApp status condemning governmental decisions.
In Chhattisgarh, a young woman was arrested for questioning Operation Sindoor and making comments about the Indian Army on social media. In Assam, a 40-year-old man was arrested in Cachar district on Facebook.
In Karnataka, a man was arrested after posting a provocative video on social media, questioning How did Pakistan Jets bombed Indian bases and why Modi did nothing.
In Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir, nine individuals have been booked on the so-called charge of spreading rumours and posting inflammatory and seditious statements on social media platforms.
It is unfortunate that in Modi’s India, questioning war is a crime.
