The Joint Teachers’ Organisations which includes AIPC, AIPSN, CTF, DTF, DTI, IAFN, INTEC, RSM, SSM held a press conference on 20th May, 3 PM, at the Press Club of India, condemning the unlawful arrest and targeting of Dr. Ali Khan Mahmudabad by the Haryana Police.
This press meet was addressed by representatives of teachers' organisations and various academicians condemning the ongoing assault on academic freedom and constitutional rights.
The briefing was opened and moderated by DTI representative, Dr. Uma Raag. She began by listing the names of faculty, students, and public intellectuals across various institutions and universities in the country who have been targeted by the State in recent years, some of whom continue to be in prison awaiting trial. Dr. Ali Khan Mahmudabad's case is the most recent example and addition to this growing list.
Surajit Mazumdar, from JNUTA in his speech to the press said, "The actions against Dr. Khan represents not just an attack on his freedom of expression but on the right of the public at large to engage in informed discussion and debate as a means of learning and taking the nation to heights!"
Anita Rampal echoed the statements made by Dr. Khan's students about the need for an "ecosystem of trust, respect, and love" which Dr. Khan fostered and must be restored to him through a swift dismissal of the case against him and his release. Dhiraj Nite, faculty, AUD, expressed complete solidarity and demanded that the court dismiss the false charges. Rajshree Chandra from IAFN reiterated the need for timely action and said, "Just like the courts need to be left free to pursue justice, Universities need to be left free to pursue truth."
Former DU teacher, Laxman Yadav underlined the fact that Dr. Ali was targeted for his religious identity and that this is "an attack on Baba Saheb's Constitution and that Prof. Ali Khan comes from a family that chose this country."
Prof. Manoj Jha, Rajya Sabha member, sent in a message of solidarity with Dr. Khan and the protesting teaching community. Insha, President Ashoka University student union and Nitish Kumar President JNUSU also addressed the press conference in solidarity.
During the proceedings, the organisers of the press conference were informed by members of the press that Dr. Mahmudabad’s judicial custody has been extended. We absolutely condemn this move, which goes against constitutional freedoms and rights, and demand his immediate release.
We are determined to continue our protest against such unlawful abridgment of our democratic and political rights by the state and will continue to resist the detention of Dr. Khan.
- Issued by Democratic Teachers Initiative (DTI) on May 20, 2025
