Srinagar, Indian administered Kashmir: May 22, 2025 Cyber Police Srinagar arrested two individuals, including a terminated academic and a journalist, in connection with the alleged dissemination of “objectionable content” on social media platforms.
The individuals identified as Dr. Abdul Waseem alias Bari, a former professor hailing from Kulgam and currently residing in Natipora, and journalist Asifa Bashir, a resident of Chattabal, were taken into custody earlier today.
The arrests were made under FIR No. 06/2025, and the case has been registered under multiple provisions, including Sections 67 and 67-A of the Information Technology Act, as well as Sections 75(3), 79, and 356(2) of the newly implemented Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
According to official sources, Dr. Waseem has been transferred to Police Station Shergari, whereas Asifa Bashir has been sent to the Women’s Police Station Rambagh for further legal processing and investigation.
Police officials have not publicly disclosed the nature of the “objectionable content” or whether it pertains to journalistic activities, personal expression, or other forms of online commentary. Media and digital rights organizations have yet to issue formal responses, but the arrests are likely to invite scrutiny from civil liberties and press freedom advocates.
The arrests come amid increasing concern and ban over freedom of expression and digital surveillance in the region, particularly following the rollout of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which has replaced sections of the Indian Penal Code. Legal experts have raised questions about the interpretation and potential misuse of these laws in regulating online speech.
While the authorities maintain that the arrests are part of routine cybercrime monitoring, press freedom watchdogs are expected to follow the case closely, especially given the involvement of a working journalist.
Further developments are awaited as the investigation progresses.