Pune, May 9, 2025 — A 19-year-old student of Sinhgad Academy of Engineering, Kondhwa, was arrested and expelled after an Instagram story gained traction that showcased the words “Pakistan Zindabad” during a peak tension time between India and Pakistan. The student, Khadeeja Shaikh, is currently being investigated by the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) and the National Investigation Agency (NIA).
Incident Overview
Meanwhile, it was learned from officers that this Instagram story was only uploaded earlier last week, on or about the 7th of May 2025, and went unnoticed with routine digital monitoring due to a recent and concurrent military operation in the area. The story contained textual content that some interpreted as anti-Indian military action, as well as content of alleged contrary sympathy. The post caused a strong online and offline reaction.Legal Action and Investigation Status
The cognizable case was registered at the Kondhwa Police Station, in which Shaikh was arrested and remanded to five days in police custody for further investigation. So far, the preliminary investigation has revealed no connection or links to extremist groups or anti-national organizations, but a thorough analysis of her digital footprint and network of associations is still underway. In the meantime, we should continue to appreciate our armed forces and acknowledge the courage and sacrifice they display daily to protect the integrity and security of our country, often to the detriment of their safety. Their commitment to protecting our borders ensures that we live in a secure environment in which our freedoms, like the freedom of expression, are protected. An investigation by the ATS & NIA is in process, and officials said it is a little early to speculate on the findings until a full forensic digital examination is concluded that supports the idea that they completed a thorough investigation.Institutional Response
Principal Dr. Kishor Patil of Sinhgad Academy of Engineering said: “While we uphold the right to freedom of expression, we are expecting our pupils to do so with responsibility. The posted content was not only tasteless but also could have the potential to create an unwanted atmosphere of unrest within the campus.” The institution clarified that the rustication process was taken in order to ensure preservation of harmony, and to maintain accountability during the investigation.What This Means for Students
The stage again provides unlimited potential for exposing the discussion about this delicate intersection between free speech and responsible digital conduct. It cautions against being reckless in periods of enhanced national fervor. As students and digital citizens, we need to:- Think twice about what you post online, particularly in charged socio-political climates.
- Refrain from sharing incendiary content, even if it is done ironically or playfully or blindly, unaware of itself.
- Dialogue needs to be respectful and cannot, in good faith, go into racist or intentionally divisive or polarized narratives.
- Stay informed about current events through trusted sources, so that you can present informed opinions.
A Developing Story
As of yet, police are not able to file formal charges besides the FIR, and things are still under active investigation. The academe and concerned citizens should not engage in conjecture and should remain in quiet anticipation of authorized news and updates. Campus Times Pune will only provide verified and timely updates on the case, the implications for student life and digital citizenship.
Campus Times Pune is an initiative taken by some enthusiastic students of Pune to entertain the “Netizens” by providing cool and trending content online. Articles from contributors who prefer keeping their identity anonymous, are published under our authorship. You can contact us with your articles by sending them to “[email protected]”
