In a move critics say reflects a growing intolerance toward dissent, Assam MLA Aminul Islam has been arrested after he publicly questioned the Indian government’s stance on two major terror attacks—Pulwama (2019) and Pahalgam (2025).
Islam, who represents Dhing for the All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF), had alleged during a political rally that the Pulwama attack was never thoroughly investigated and might have been politically exploited to polarise voters ahead of the 2019 general elections. He linked it to the recent Pahalgam terror strike, claiming both events raise serious questions.
“The BJP claims the Pahalgam attackers spared Muslims and targeted Hindus, but survivors said no names were asked—the firing came from the dark,”
Islam stated. He further warned that without an impartial investigation, public suspicion of a conspiracy involving Prime Minister Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah would only grow.
When Doubt Becomes a Crime
Soon after, Assam Police arrested Islam, accusing him of making “misleading and instigating” statements that could incite unrest. He was charged under several provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including those related to endangering national unity and facilitating terrorism.
His arrest has sparked outrage among free speech advocates, who argue that raising questions about security lapses or demanding accountability should not be criminalized. The incident adds to growing concerns that political criticism in India is being equated with sedition.