Thought police: on a professor’s arrest

In an unconscionable act, a professor of political science at Ashoka University, Ali Khan Mahmudabad, was arrested on Sunday by the Haryana Police after two separate first information reports (FIR) were registered against him in Sonipat. These FIRs were over his social media posts in connection with Operation Sindoor. The first message analysed the strategic … Read more

Letters to The Editor — May 20, 2025

Diplomacy and action I write with reference to the Editorial and the Editorial page article (both May 19).” Nearly a month after the tragic Pahalgam attack, the perpetrators remain at large. I have full faith in our security agencies and armed forces. But, at the same time, as we dispatch all-party delegations abroad to counter … Read more

Getting the ‘micropicture’ at the panchayat level

‘Generally, portals are designed to meet the requirements of the heads of departments and secretaries, which needs to change’ | Photo Credit: Getty Images Critics point to the delay in conducting Census operations and releasing Census data to researchers. They also highlight the other surveys carried out by the government and/or the change in methodology, … Read more

​Old and unsafe: on the Hyderabad fire  

Mixing history, tradition and commerce, the old city neighbourhoods of India’s metropolises have a unique vibrancy, colour and feel. Some of the hardiest entrepreneurs, talented craftsmen and canny businesspeople have set shop there, along with the working classes, that help turn the wheels of the economy. These neighbourhoods are home to narrow lanes, crumbling commercial … Read more

In the wake of crisis, the need for bipartisanship

The terrorist attack in Pahalgam, on April 22, 2025 has once again shaken our collective conscience, reminding us of the fragility of peace in a region long burdened by the weight of history. As India grieves the loss of innocent lives and strengthens its resolve against terror, we must also recognise the critical importance of … Read more

Copyright’s tryst with generative AI

Image for representation only | Photo Credit: Reuters Copyright law has always been a product of technology. It was created in 1710 to deal with the outcome of the invention of the printing press, to protect publishers against any unauthorised publication while encouraging learning, and to further their economic interests. Since inception, copyright law has … Read more

Operation Sindoor — a case of doubtful deterrence

The “new normal” in India’s fight against terrorism, which Prime Minister Narendra Modi is seeking to establish after the horrific terror attack at Pahalgam on April 22, 2025, is neither based on complete information nor a rigorous security review of Operation Sindoor. Unlike Pakistan, India is a constitutional democracy, where major policies related to national … Read more

Show of cards: on Operation Sindoor and government’s delegations 

The Narendra Modi government has announced seven delegations to canvas support for India in global capitals, in the aftermath of its recent conflict with Pakistan. The declared intent of these delegations — with representatives from political parties, diplomats and strategic experts — is to demonstrate before the world, the unity and the character of India … Read more

Letters to The Editor — May 19, 2025

Diplomatic squad What purpose will India’s diplomatic delegations to the different countries serve other than incurring an expense to the exchequer and when previous and similar missions have not brought any change? The foreign policy of every country is hardwired to its geopolitical perspectives aimed at maximum benefit vis-à-vis other countries. Their policy towards India … Read more