Assam Arrests, Crackdown Expand After Pahalgam Attack

Following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir, Assam authorities have arrested at least 81 people accused of sympathizing with Pakistan, including for social media activity such as displaying the Pakistani flag. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has justified the intensified crackdown, emphasizing active monitoring of online content for anti-national activities. Some detainees, including opposition MLA Aminul Islam, face charges under the National Security Act and sedition laws for allegedly defending Pakistan or questioning the government’s account of the attack. The crackdown coincides with broader efforts against suspected espionage in India and actions to address illegal immigration in Assam, with reports of dozens of alleged Bangladeshis being pushed back at the border. These measures have heightened political and security tensions in the region. Human rights groups and critics have raised concerns about freedom of expression and due process amid the ongoing operations.