New Delhi, July 16(HS): The Supreme Court has instructed the Haryana SIT to limit its investigation to the two FIRs against Ashoka University professor Ali Khan Mahmudabad concerning his comments on Operation Sindoor. A bench led by Justice Surya Kant emphasized that the SIT should determine if any crime occurred due to Ali Khan Mahmudabad's social media posts and to submit a report within four weeks.

The court clarified that the SIT cannot seize Ali Khan Mahmudabad's mobile devices or electronics, as he is cooperating with the investigation, and that he need not be summoned further. Additionally, the court relaxed the conditions of his bail, allowing him to upload posts, write articles, and express opinions freely. On May 28, the Supreme Court reiterated that the SIT's focus would remain solely on the two FIRs from May 21 when it was formed.

During proceedings, Justice Surya Kant acknowledged the importance of freedom of expression but questioned the necessity of communal statements during challenging times. Senior lawyer Kapil Sibal, representing Ali Khan Mahmudabad, asserted that his comments on Operation Sindoor were patriotic, despite his prior arrest and subsequent police custody.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar