In the aftermath of the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed 26 lives, Assam authorities have intensified a crackdown on individuals accused of expressing pro-Pakistan sentiments. As of May 14, 2025, 58 individuals have been arrested across the state, including students and a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA). (India Today NE, mint)
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced the latest arrests via social media, stating, “58 Pak sympathisers are behind bars. They will also receive special care for their anti-national activities.” (Rediff)
Among those arrested is AIUDF MLA Aminul Islam, who faces sedition charges for allegedly defending Pakistan and denying its involvement in the Pahalgam incident. (Rediff)
Critics argue that the crackdown disproportionately targets Muslim youths and individuals sharing anti-war or government-critical content. A researcher from Guwahati questioned the labeling of such content as anti-national, stating, “Many of the contents shared are anti-war, some are critical of the government, and others are appeals for peace. How can these be labelled as pro-Pakistani and anti-national?” (Maktoob media)
The Assam government has indicated that the National Security Act (NSA) will be invoked against select individuals deemed habitual offenders. (@EconomicTimes)
This development has sparked a broader debate on freedom of expression and the potential misuse of national security laws to suppress dissent.(@EconomicTimes)
